119th (2025–2027)
S. 4766
This bill requires the Secretary of Defense to establish a pilot program to test whether 3D printing technology can safely produce explosives and energetic materials used in military ammunition. The program, led by the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, will evaluate whether 3D-printed energetic materials offer advantages over traditional manufacturing methods in terms of safety, consistency, supply chain reliability, and operational performance. The pilot will conduct safety assessments, develop testing standards and quality controls, run limited demonstrations at secure government and contractor facilities, and identify any barriers to wider adoption such as infrastructure or workforce needs. The Secretary must report to Congress every six months starting 180 days after the program begins, detailing test results, safety findings, and recommendations for future use. The pilot program is limited to two years from the bill's enactment.