Key Takeaways

  • The US Army is losing millions of dollars in training value due to non-mission capable tanks.
  • Advanced manufacturing can produce parts quickly, but current policies limit its use.
  • The Army has identified nearly 1,700 parts that can be produced using advanced manufacturing techniques.

Strategic Implications

This issue may indicate the Army’s reliance on traditional supply chain management. The focus on preserving training value suggests a shift in approach to sustainment costs. The potential for additive manufacturing to convert time into readiness could benefit the Army regardless of final policy decisions.