3D Printed Airless Wheels Keep Ground Robots Moving in Combat Zones

October 11, 2026 - 23:25

print&live and iSCALE3D have developed arkan, a set of 3D printed airless wheels for unmanned ground vehicles used for casualty evacuation, ammunition transport, and logistical support.

The wheels replace traditional pneumatic tires, which can be punctured by debris, glass, or gunfire. A flat tire can strand a robot in the middle of a mission, especially in combat or disaster zones where recovery is difficult or dangerous. The airless design removes that failure point entirely.

The structure uses a flexible lattice that absorbs shocks and conforms to uneven ground without needing air pressure. Because the wheels are 3D printed, they can be produced on demand and customized for different vehicle sizes or load requirements. That matters for military and emergency teams that need spare parts quickly and cannot wait for a supply chain.

Unmanned ground vehicles already carry wounded soldiers, ammunition, and supplies in areas where sending people is risky. Reliable wheels are essential for those tasks. A robot that cannot move is not just useless, it can put others in danger if it blocks a route or fails during an evacuation.

The developers say the airless wheels reduce maintenance and extend operational time in the field. The project points to a broader trend: additive manufacturing is moving from prototypes to rugged, real world hardware that has to work when conditions are at their worst.