A new 3D printing facility is being developed in Guam, with a budget of $40 million, to support the U.S. Navy’s submarine operations. Spearheaded by the Applied Science & Technology Research Organization of America (ASTRO America), this initiative is called the Guam Advanced Material & Manufacturing Accelerator (GAMMA).
ASTRO America has already secured $5 million from the Navy for fiscal year 2024 and anticipates receiving an additional $12 million soon to kick off the project. The facility aims to minimize downtime for submarines stationed on Guam by enabling them to produce necessary parts on demand, rather than relying on remote supply chains.
President of ASTRO America, Neal Orringer, emphasized that this project is crucial for enhancing U.S. national security while also fostering economic growth in Guam. The facility will accommodate various functions, including a lab, classrooms, and office spaces, and is projected to create between 85 to 100 jobs.
The facility’s construction is expected to be completed within three years, and preliminary structures for training and technical work will be operational in six to eight months. While its primary goal is to cater to the Navy, the capabilities developed at GAMMA may also extend to other sectors, including aerospace and automotive industries.
This venture also aligns with Guam’s Governor Lou Leon Guerrero’s vision for diversifying the island’s economy. She highlighted the benefits this project would bring, including job creation and training opportunities that could extend beyond the military and into the civilian community.
As Guam strengthens its position as a hub for advanced manufacturing in the Indo-Pacific region, it is expected to play a significant role in both defense and innovative economic development.