The Indian Army, in collaboration with Military Engineer Services (MES), Simpliforge Creations, and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad, has opened its largest 3D-printed building at Morar Cantonment in Gwalior. This marks Madhya Pradesh’s first 3D-printed structure, specifically built for soldiers.
Year of Technology Absorption 2024
Inaugurated by Major General KTG Krishnan, General Officer Commanding of the Shahbaaz Division, this project emphasizes the Army’s dedication to technological progress under the “Year of Technology Absorption 2024.” The barrack aims to address the pressing need for effective housing solutions for troops stationed in remote areas.
Key Features of the 3D-Printed Barrack
Designed to accommodate 14 soldiers, the building covers approximately 2,500 square feet and stands between 11 and 11.5 feet tall. While the foundation was constructed using traditional methods, the 10-foot above-ground structure was entirely made using 3D printing technology.
This innovative approach sped up construction, with the 3D printing completed in just one month, compared to the two weeks for the foundation.
Efficiency and Cost
Dhruv Gandhi, Co-founder and CEO of Simpliforge Creations, noted that while the overall cost was about 20% higher than conventional construction, the time savings and adaptability for challenging terrains make it a viable option for future military infrastructure.
IIT-H contributed significantly by providing design analysis and structural validation, while Simpliforge Creations oversaw the design and construction.
Future Implications
This initiative reflects the Indian Army’s growing commitment to employing advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiency and improve soldier welfare. The success of this project opens doors for greater use of 3D printing in military infrastructure, especially in areas with logistical hurdles.
This development sets a new standard for innovation in military construction. The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior military officials, marking an important step in the Army’s modernization efforts.
In his address at the inauguration, Major General KTG Krishnan, General Officer Commanding, Shahbaaz Division, said,
The introduction of this 3D-printed barrack marks a major achievement for our forces, especially in areas where traditional construction may not be feasible. This technology allows us to quickly address housing needs. The collaboration with IIT Hyderabad, Military Engineer Services, and Simpliforge Creations has been instrumental in turning this vision into reality. As we celebrate 2024 as the Year of Technology Absorption, we are committed to integrating more of these innovative solutions into our operations.