We’re kicking off 2026 with clarity, momentum, and purpose. From global perspectives on the future of metal additive manufacturing to real-world case studies and strategic initiatives across defense, space, and energy, January sets the tone for what’s ahead. Here’s a quick look at what’s moving — and why it matters.

CASE STUDY: ENERGY, PROVEN

See how ExxonMobil leveraged Nikon SLM Solutions’ metal AM technology to tackle extreme operating conditions, complex geometries, and qualification challenges. The result: improved performance, reduced complexity, and a clear path to repeatable production — proving metal AM’s role in industrial energy applications.

Download the case study

DEFENSE GOES INDUSTRIAL

Additive manufacturing is moving decisively from promise to deployment in defense — and Forbes is taking note. In a new feature, Nikon Advanced Manufacturing CEO Hamid Zarringhalam addresses one of the industry’s longest-standing challenges: qualification and testing. As Hamid explains, adoption has often stalled not because parts can’t be qualified, but because requirements have historically been overly rigid. That dynamic is now beginning to shift. With increasing regulatory pragmatism and industrial-scale platforms like Nikon SLM Solutions’ NXG systems already enabling qualified, production-ready manufacturing, metal AM is accelerating real-world defense deployment.

Read the full Forbes article

GERMANY’S NEWSPACE ERA

Nikon SLM Solutions is now part of Germany’s NewSpace Initiative — strengthening Europe’s space ecosystem through speed, flexibility, and performance-driven manufacturing. Additive manufacturing is a key enabler for rockets, propulsion systems, spacecraft, and satellites — and we’re proud to contribute our experience to this next chapter.

Learn more

METAL AM AT SCALE

Metal additive manufacturing isn’t emerging — it’s scaling. In a new interview with The TCT Group, Nikon Advanced Manufacturing CEO Hamid Zarringhalam shares why metal AM is core to Nikon’s long-term strategy and why now is the moment to industrialize. From early skunkworks to global AM technology centers, the message is clear: this is a billion-dollar business in the making.

Read the interview

MEET US AT MILAM 2026

We’re heading to MILAM 2026 in Tampa this February to connect with leaders shaping the future of defense manufacturing. Join the Nikon SLM Solutions team to discuss how metal additive manufacturing is already supporting mission-critical defense applications — from qualification and repeatability to scaling production with confidence.

Tampa Convention Center

February 3–5, 2026

Booth 201

Whether you’re exploring metal AM for new programs or looking to industrialize existing ones, our team will be on site to share real-world insights, proven use cases, and practical next steps.

Book a meeting with our experts

AM FOR SECURITY & DEFENSE

Following our recent guest contribution in Handelsblatt, Dr. Simon Merkt-Schippers and David Wilckens. took part in the Handelsblatt Security & Defense Conference in Berlin, engaging with industry leaders on how additive manufacturing is already strengthening security and defense applications today.

The discussion focused on real-world deployment — from accelerating qualification to enabling faster, more flexible production of critical components. It reinforced a clear message: metal additive manufacturing is no longer a future concept for defense. It’s a proven industrial tool with significant potential still ahead.

Learn more about the event

EXPLORE ADDICTIVE ADDITIVE:
YOUR AM KNOWLEDGE HUB

Stay ahead of the curve with Addictive Additive, Nikon SLM Solutions’ dedicated blog for exclusive business cases, expert insights, and the latest trends in additive manufacturing. Whether you’re exploring advanced aerospace applications, cutting-edge automotive innovations, or new material developments, our blog has you covered.

Read the latest articles

CUSTOMER SUCCESS STORIES

ExxonMobil
Driving High-Performance Racing Components Into the Future

Download Case Study

Fundamental Motorsports
Driving High-Performance Racing Components Into the Future

Download Case Study

Karman Space Programme

Pushing the Boundaries of Reusable Rocket Engines

Download Case Study

Airbus
Transforming Fuel System Components With Additive Manufacturing

Download Case Study

SERVICE HUB

The Service Hub is dedicated to keeping your metal AM systems running at peak performance. From maintenance and repairs to expert technical support, we provide the reliable services you need to ensure consistent, high-quality production.

Powder Quality Management
Use only high-quality, certified metal powders, and implement sieving and monitoring practices to prevent contamination or particle degradation over time.

Operator Training
Ensure operators are trained not only in machine operation but also in best practices for part setup, powder handling, and safety procedures.

Regular Inspections
Inspect recoater blades, build plates, and optics frequently for wear or damage, and address small issues immediately before they escalate into costly downtime.

ON-DEMAND WEBINARS

Curious about how metal additive manufacturing (AM) is reshaping industries?

Our collection of on-demand webinars gives you access to the latest innovations and trends in this transformative technology.

From aerospace to energy, metal AM is changing the way we manufacture. Explore topics such as:

• Innovative Applications: See how cutting-edge AM technology is driving breakthroughs in product development.
• Industry Trends: Stay informed on the most recent advancements shaping the future of metal AM.
• Technical Insights: Dive deep into the technical aspects, from design optimization to material choices and processes.

Ready to discover how metal AM can push your business forward? Watch our on-demand webinars and get inspired.

MATERIALS MATTER

NI-BASED ALLOYS

Nickel-based alloys provide exceptional strength, heat resistance, and corrosion performance, making them essential for demanding applications in aerospace, energy, and industrial sectors where extreme temperatures and harsh environments require reliable, high-performing materials.

Discover SLM® Ni-Based Alloys

Cu-BASED ALLOYS

Copper-based alloys offer outstanding thermal and electrical conductivity along with strong mechanical performance, making them essential for applications in tooling, electronics, and advanced energy systems where high strength and efficient heat or power transfer are critical.

Discover SLM® Cu-Based Alloys

MATERIAL CASE STUDIES

Download this case study to learn more about GRCop-42, a copper alloy essential for rocket engine components that require high thermal conductivity and strength.