# Beehive Moves 3D-Printed Drone Jet Engines Into Full Production A new era in high-volume manufacturing for defense systems begins. - **Source:** [Forbes - Business](https://brifing.si/source/e0310925-a7af-4d4b-80a7-c80d400e49fa) - **Published:** 2026-07-22 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/d176bd5f-f589-4115-b935-2bfa5e5ef2ba ## Next-Gen Defense Technology Beehive Industries has prepared its Frenzy 8 jet engine, designed for unmanned defense systems, for mass production. The 200-pound-thrust engine, produced using additive manufacturing, represents a significant transformation in the defense sector. ## Government Support and Investments The company secured a $29.7 million contract from the U.S. Air Force and invested over $50 million in metal additive manufacturing equipment. The acquisition of two machine shops in Ohio and a $70 million expansion plan will create more than 200 new jobs in the region. ## Successful Testing Phase The Frenzy 8 engine successfully completed high-altitude testing at a government facility in Ohio. The tests validated the engine's ignition, acceleration, durability, and performance. The engine remained in 'like new' condition after mission-life-equivalent runtime. ## Preparing for Mass Production Beehive announced that the Frenzy 8 is ready for flight integration. The company progressed from concept to proven high-altitude performance in less than a year. The production system is also scalable alongside the engine. ## 3D Printer Investments The company expanded its production capacity by ordering 30 M4 ONYX metal 3D printers from Germany's EOS. The $50 million deal will deliver printers to Beehive's Colorado and Tennessee facilities within 12 months. These printers feature automated powder handling and production data capabilities. ## Fully Integrated Production System Beehive is building an end-to-end manufacturing system, not just focusing on 3D printing. The acquisition of machine shops in Ohio is critical for post-printing processes. These steps ensure control and efficiency in high-volume production. ## Transforming the Defense Sector Beehive's approach offers a faster and more cost-effective model compared to traditional turbine engine production. This innovative strategy supports the 'affordable mass' concept in defense, aiming to provide a competitive edge on the battlefield. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.forbes.com/sites/carolynschwaar/2026/07/22/beehive-pushes-3d-printed-drone-jet-engines-into-full-production/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._