Simpliforge and IIT Hyderabad construct the world’s highest on-site 3D printed military bunker in Leh at 11,000 feet, showcasing rapid, resilient construction in extreme environments.
In a world-first achievement, India’s Simpliforge Creations along with IIT Hyderabad have built the world’s highest on-site 3D printed military bunker at Leh at an altitude of 11,000 feet. The project executed with the Indian Army and under Project PRABAL shows the possibilities of 3D printing technology at extreme heights.
The bunker itself was printed in mere 14 hours using Simpliforge’s robotic 3D printer, which was set up and functional within 24 hours. “Obstacles like low oxygen levels, material UV radiation, humidity, and multi-day construction timelines were challenging,” Dhruv Gandhi, the company’s CEO noted. “It was, however, a working structure in five days.”
It is clear from the quote above that material innovation was essential to fulfilling the project requirements. IIT Hyderabad’s Prof. K.V.L. Subramaniam said, “We developed a concrete mix with local aggregates that could endure thermal cycling and altitude stresses. The bunker underwent thorough testing, and it maintained its structural integrity.”
This achievement adds onto India’s emerging capabilities in 3D construction spanning from bridges to medical structures. Hari Krishna Jeedipalli of Simpliforge remarkedon the significance of the statement saying, “It’s not only a defense issue; this is a template for space habitats in the future, whether on the Moon or Mars.”
Read more : SUNLU Launches New Filaments and Dryers at RAPID + TCT 2025
With its rapid deployment and use of indigenous technology, the project sets a precedent for infrastructure solutions in remote, hostile environments.
