Royal Air Force components recycled

Retired Royal Air Force (RAF) Tornado components have been salvaged for the next-generation Tempest fighter jet.

The Tornado 2 Tempest project atomises Tornado aircraft’s materials to extract high-criticality metals like titanium.

The project is a collaboration between Additive Manufacturing Solutions (AMS), UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) and Rolls-Royce.

AMS then used this feedstock and 3D printed a nose cone and fan blades for Rolls-Royce’s small-engine Orpheus. The company claims the cone has passed rigorous suitability and safety checks.

The Tempest is part of the MOD’s Future Combat Air System.

AMS was awarded the Chief of Defence Logistics and Support Commendation for this project.