Pentagon eyes 3D-printed military boats made from volcanic fiber — non-conductive hulls add stealth capabilities while replacing a 6,545-mile supply chain, could scale to 25,000 vessels a year at forward bases
The Pentagon is considering 3D-printed inflatable boats made from a composite of recycled PETG plastic and basalt fiber. This material, called Eclipse X9, offers increased tensile strength and non-conductivity, which could reduce radar signatures and RF interference for stealth capabilities. A startup named Voltage Vessels has proposed these boats, which could be manufactured at forward bases, significantly shortening the military's extensive supply chain. AI
IMPACT Potential for localized manufacturing and reduced logistics in military operations, though not directly AI-related.