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ARTICLE · 12 OCTOBER 2026

3D Printed Cruise Missile Engine Technology

Marks & Clerk
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Intellectual property rights face new challenges as 3D printing and additive manufacturing reshape the defence industry. Swedish aerospace firm GKN Aerospace's Project Otto demonstrates how these technologies enable ITAR-free engine designs, while collaborations with Pratt & Whitney pioneer large-scale structural components for military aircraft. The convergence of advanced manufacturing and IP protection raises critical questions about technology transfer, licensing arrangements, and patent strategies in a

United KingdomIntellectual Property
Tobias Eriksson
Tobias Eriksson
Susan Bradley
Susan Bradley
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Intellectual property (IP) rights, and in particular patents, play an important role in the defence industry. Over recent years, 3D printing and additive manufacturing (AM) technology has been increasingly leveraged within the industry. Extra considerations are often necessary when establishing IP protection for technology that may be subject to 3D printing or other AM technologies.

Recently, new turbojet engine technology has been developed by Swedish aerospace firm GKN Aerospace under “Project Otto”. The engine is configured to deliver a 100 kg warhead over 1,000 km. By using 3D printing for core engine components, GKN Aerospace has simplified the assembly and managed to provide an “ITAR-free” architecture - meaning that the technology relies on non-US components and IP, therefore being free from US International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). The ITAR-free design may simplify potential technology transfers, licensing arrangements and production outside the US.

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