Marines from I Marine Expeditionary Force learn how to operate the world's largest concrete 3D printer as it constructs a 500-square-foot barracks hut at the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center in Champaign, Illinois. Marine Corps Systems Command conducted the field user evaluation in mid-August to inform future requirements for cutting-edge technology and autonomous systems. (Photo: Marine Corps Systems Command) The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
By: FEDweek StaffSoldiers at Fort Bliss, Texas, soon will be assigned the Army’s first 3D-printed barracks. The Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) reported that the initiative should help alleviate the long-standing problems associated with substandard housing.
Citing an Army press release, AUSA reported that the 5,700-square-foot structure will be the largest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere once completed. It will consist of three 36-bunk facilities, capable of housing as many as 72 soldiers.
“By prioritizing soldier well-being with mold-resistant materials and energy-efficient designs, these new barracks truly represent how it’s better at Bliss,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Dave Sweeney, the senior enlisted at the Texas post. “The introduction of 3D-printed barracks embodies our commitment to creating a truly exceptional experience for soldiers living and working here.”
The 3D-printed barracks project is part of an Army-wide quality of life enhancement pilot, which also includes other privatized and military-owned housing for families and single soldiers at some 50 installations. The service hopes these steps, as well as improved access to childcare and higher bonuses, will address ongoing recruitment and retention issues.
“This pilot embodies the Army’s dedication to innovation in meeting the evolving needs of our force,” said Sgt. Maj. Michael Perry, the senior enlisted advisor to the Army’s installations chief. “We’re not only exploring was to build better and faster, but we’re also exploring construction options that will ensure our soldiers thrive in sustainable living quarters.”
The new barracks at Bliss should prove to be energy-efficient, mold-resistant, and capable of holding up in harsh weather or natural disasters.
“By prioritizing pilots that offer these properties, we safeguard soldier health and well-being, creating homes for our soldiers that can withstand the test of time and environmental challenges faced across our installations,” Perry said.
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