WAAM for Belgium's F-35 Industrial Strategy

Guaranteed, a Belgian additive manufacturing company, in collaboration with Lockheed Martin, is set to integrate Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) technology into Belgium's industrial strategy for the F-35 fighter jet program. This initiative aims to enhance the local production capabilities and supply chain for the advanced aircraft.

The deployment of WAAM technology is expected to allow for the production of larger and more complex metal components directly within Belgium. This move aligns with the broader industrial participation agreements associated with the F-35 acquisition, ensuring that Belgian industry benefits from the program through technological development and manufacturing opportunities.

WAAM is an additive manufacturing process that uses an electric arc to melt and fuse metal wire feedstock, building parts layer by layer. It is particularly suited for producing large-scale metal structures, offering advantages in terms of material efficiency, reduced lead times, and design flexibility compared to traditional manufacturing methods.

The partnership between Guaranteed and Lockheed Martin signifies a commitment to advancing high-tech manufacturing within Belgium. The focus on WAAM for the F-35 program suggests a strategic effort to leverage cutting-edge additive manufacturing techniques for defense applications, potentially creating new jobs and specialized skills within the Belgian workforce.