Additive Manufacturing in ASEAN: Key Insights from Global Experts

Additive Manufacturing: A Game-Changer for ASEAN Factories \\[8pt] As the global landscape of additive manufacturing (AM) continues to evolve, it's clear that the technology is no longer just a novelty. The 2026 edition of the Additive Manufacturing Advantage: Aerospace, Space and Defense (AMAA 2026) event, set for July 9th, highlights this shift. This year, the focus is on the industrial execution of AM, moving beyond the initial excitement of what can be printed to the critical aspects of qualification, certification, and scalability. For ASEAN factories, this means a significant opportunity to adopt and integrate these advanced technologies into their production processes. \\[8pt] ## From Possibility to Industrial Execution \\[8pt] The AMAA 2026 speaker lineup includes experts from NASA, Divergent Technologies, Dyndrite, and Safran, among others. These industry leaders will discuss the challenges and solutions in modernizing metal AM qualification, the use of high-temperature materials like tungsten and niobium alloys, and the role of wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) in defense autonomy. For factories in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia, these discussions are particularly relevant as they look to enhance their capabilities in producing mission-critical components. \\[8pt] ## Qualification and Certification: The Path to Adoption \\[8pt] One of the key themes at AMAA 2026 is the importance of qualification and certification. NASA, for instance, will share insights on material readiness and the ongoing efforts to advance AM for spaceflight applications. Safran will address machine qualification and part certification strategies, which are crucial for ensuring the reliability and performance of components in aeronautics. For ASEAN factories, this means that adopting AM is not just about having the right equipment; it also requires a robust framework for quality assurance and compliance. \\[8pt] ## Scaling Up: Lessons from Industry Leaders \\[8pt] Another critical aspect is the ability to scale up production. Divergent Technologies, known for its innovative work in automotive, aerospace, and defense, will share lessons on scaling AM for large-scale production. This is particularly important for ASEAN factories, which often face the challenge of transitioning from prototype to full-scale production. Sakuu, another speaker, will discuss battery safety and manufacturing for eVTOL applications, highlighting the need for advanced materials and processes to meet the demands of emerging markets. \\[8pt] ## Concrete Takeaways for ASEAN Factory Buyers \\[8pt] For factory buyers in ASEAN, the key takeaway is that additive manufacturing is not just a future trend but a present reality. To stay competitive, it is essential to invest in the right technologies, build a strong qualification and certification framework, and learn from the experiences of global leaders. By doing so, ASEAN factories can position themselves at the forefront of innovation, delivering high-quality, mission-critical components that meet the stringent requirements of the aerospace, defense, and space industries. \\[8pt]