Shapeways utilizes advanced additive and traditional technologies to provide drone and robotics developers with cutting-edge digital manufacturing services, enabling rapid prototyping, scalable production, and faster time-to-market.
Unmanned Systems Technology (UST) is pleased to announce the addition of Shapeways to our global supplier ecosystem. As a Gold Supplier, the company is showcasing a comprehensive suite of digital manufacturing capabilities designed to support the evolving needs of the unmanned systems and robotics industries.
By combining advanced additive manufacturing technologies with industrial-scale production capabilities, Shapeways enables UAV and robotic system developers to overcome the limitations of traditional manufacturing processes. With no minimum order quantities and the ability to scale production runs to 10,000 units or more, the company allows engineering teams to rapidly iterate designs, reduce development timelines, and bring innovative products to market faster. Operating facilities in both the US and EU, Shapeways provides reliable on-demand production while minimizing supply chain risks and ensuring rapid turnaround times.
Key manufacturing capabilities from Shapeways include:
- Advanced Additive Manufacturing – technologies including SLS, MJF, SLA, DMLS/SLM, DLP, Binder Jetting, Material Jetting, and Lost Wax Casting for rapid prototyping and production-ready components
- Traditional Manufacturing Services – CNC machining, injection molding, vacuum casting, sheet metal fabrication, and urethane casting
- Drone & Robotics Components – production of lightweight, durable, and high-performance airframes, payload mounts, camera gimbals, landing gear, and custom housings
- Rapid Iteration & Low-Volume Production – no tooling requirements and no minimum order quantities, enabling fast design validation and specialized production runs
- On-Demand Spare Parts – digitally stored designs allow rapid reproduction of obsolete or difficult-to-source components
- Resilient Supply Chain – localized manufacturing capabilities in the US and Europe reduce logistics risks and improve production security
With over 24 million parts produced and more than one million customers served across 180+ countries, Shapeways has established a reputation for quality, reliability, and manufacturing excellence. The company maintains ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 certifications and is currently working toward AS9100 certification, reinforcing its commitment to high-performance industrial manufacturing standards.
Shapeways’ advanced manufacturing services help UAV and robotics OEMs reduce complexity, consolidate assemblies, accelerate product development, and improve operational efficiency. By leveraging additive manufacturing alongside traditional production methods, the company enables engineers to create complex geometries, optimize component performance, and streamline supply chains for mission-critical unmanned systems applications.
To learn more about Shapeways and its digital manufacturing solutions for drones and robotics, visit their full profile on Unmanned Systems Technology.
