Executive Summary
Distributed 3D Printing Defense Network: register civilian printer owners, develop defense part library, test production through exercises, build permanent coordination platform. Components: printer registry (2,000+ printers with capabilities), parts library (100+ validated defense designs), quality standards (military-grade specifications), logistics network (collection hubs in every city), coordination platform (digital tasking and tracking), and annual production exercises. Target: 2,000 registered printers, 50,000 parts monthly capacity, 100+ validated designs, 48-hour activation.
In short: 2,000+ registered printers; 50,000 parts monthly production capacity; 100+ validated defense part designs
The Problem
Ukrainian distributed manufacturing revelation: centralized factories were struck by missiles within weeks—but thousands of civilian 3D printers continued producing drone components from basements and garages, impossible to target. Ukrainian maker network produced hundreds of thousands of drone stabilizer fins, camera mounts, tail assemblies, and adapter rings. Come Back Alive foundation alone coordinated 10,000+ civilian printer owners. Lithuanian maker community: 5,000+ 3D printer owners, 15+ fab labs, active maker spaces—but no defense coordination. When factory is struck, production stops. When 2,000 homes each have printer, production continues. Distributed manufacturing is resilient manufacturing. Current Lithuanian defense parts: 100% imported or centrally produced—single points of failure everywhere.