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Nikon is expanding into additive manufacturing (AM), leveraging its expertise in optics and semiconductor lithography. The company has invested approximately $1 billion in digital manufacturing, with first-half revenue last year from this segment exceeding $65 million, primarily from powder bed fusion systems.

Demand from defense, space, and aviation sectors is driving this expansion, as conventional manufacturing struggles to meet new requirements. Nikon has deployed around 80 large-format laser systems, significantly enhancing production capabilities.

However, the industry faces challenges in qualification and testing, hindering broader adoption. Despite a moderated growth outlook from 26% to 13% annually, Nikon anticipates steady demand for AM, especially for high-value applications in defense and aerospace where traditional supply chains are inadequate. The company highlights the importance of cost competitiveness, scalability, and reliability as key factors for AM adoption.