New Delhi

The Indian Army, in collaboration with IIT Hyderabad under Project PRABAL (Portable Robotic Printer for Printing Bunkers and Accessories), has operationalised on-site 3D concrete printing technology in forward locations, including Sikkim, the Army said.

The indigenous Robotic 3D Concrete Printer, vehicle-portable and designed for mountainous terrain, features a robotic arm, circular mixer, piston pump, and generator. It enables rapid construction of bunkers, sentry posts, and protective structures, with printed installations already passing live ballistic trials.

The technology offers operational advantages such as customised designs, enhanced blast and ballistic resistance, high compressive strength, quality control, efficient use of local materials, and rapid construction tailored to terrain-specific needs.

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The Army said the adoption of on-site 3D printing marks a significant step in engineering innovation, boosting operational readiness and enabling mission-oriented infrastructure development in challenging environments.