14 DAY TRIAL // 3D printing technology has been successfully used in various fields, including ground and air vehicles, with British Company BAE having tested a Fighter Jet made with 3D printed parts. The UK government thinks that's enough cause for the state to invest in it.
UK Chancellor George Osborne said that there were plans in motion for the creation of a dedicated 3D printing center next to the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry.
The MTC already has some 3D printing facilities, or wings in existing factories, but the new center will be exclusively focused on the new manufacturing technology.
In fact, the UK government will invest £15.3 million / $25 million / €18.38 million to get the project done quickly.
The investment is just part of a larger one meant to enable the creation of a new aerospace manufacturing facility.
“Our long term economic plan is working and the economy is growing. But there is still work to do, which is why we are working with industry to drive innovation and lead the global race in technology, engineering and manufacturing,” said Chancellor Osborne.
“We are already the best in Europe for aerospace and I want to do even better. Up to 27,000 new planes are needed between now and 2030, worth billions of pounds to the UK economy in contracts. That is why I am announcing today that, together with industry, we will invest around £60 million in a dedicated facility for aerospace manufacturing as part of £2 billion of support for this growing sector.”
The UK government is even investing £15 million / $24.51 million / €18 million in the MTC itself.
Currently, the market for aerospace vehicles, products and services provides the UK economy with £24 billion / $39.21 billion / €28.83 billion every year. It's no wonder the government wants to enhance its performance there.