Caribbean Sea -- In an ever-evolving battlespace, meeting supply demands quickly and efficiently is increasingly critical to maintaining operational readiness. By reducing logistical delays and increasing self-sustainment, the Marine Corps continues to strengthen its ability to deter and respond across the globe.
Portfolio Acquisition Executive Marine Corps (PAE MC) is fielding Tactical Fabrication (TACFAB) additive manufacturing systems to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), supporting forward-deployed operations with Combat Logistics Battalion (CLB) 26 and Battalion Landing Team (BLT) 3/6. The systems allow Marines to design, manufacture and repair mission-essential equipment at the point of need, significantly reducing the time and cost associated with traditional supply chains.
During Naval deployment operations on the Caribbean Sea, BLT 3/6 requested CLB 26 fabricate squad common optic honeycomb filter devices. Commonly referred to as an Anti-Reflection Device (ARD), the honeycomb-style filters are mounted to the objective lens of an optic to reduce glare and lens reflection while also protecting the optic from debris and impact damage. The design minimizes optical glint that could expose a Marine’s position while maintaining a clear sight picture for the user.
“Advanced manufacturing accelerates innovation for the warfighter,” said Gunnery Sgt. Christopher Labrovic, a machinist with CLB 26. “We can take an idea and work directly alongside the fabricator to create a functional part. We can then make modifications to that part so that it fits the need and we don’t need any external support.”
Labrovic emphasized that TACFAB capabilities expand Marines’ ability to fix, modify and repair critical components in austere environments where traditional manufacturing support may be unavailable.
With limited time and resources during deployment, obtaining specialized equipment through conventional supply systems can be difficult. TACFAB systems enable Marines to design and produce required parts within hours of receiving a request.
“The benefits are the ability to save the Marine Corps money and make parts that are not readily available,” said Cpl. Michael Romero, a maintenance technician with CLB 26.
Romero produced 100 honeycomb anti-reflection devices for the BLT in approximately 217 hours at a material cost of $90, demonstrating the system’s ability to rapidly deliver low-cost, mission-ready solutions in a forward environment.
Through continued investment in advanced manufacturing capabilities, PAE MC is reducing the gap between operational need and fielded solutions, increasing sustainment flexibility and returning Marines to the fight faster.
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