3D Systems shares surge 16.51% after-hours as aerospace & defense division gains momentum from Air Force contracts, facility expansion, and 2026 growth projections.

3D Systems surged 16.51% in after-hours trading following a major update on its Aerospace & Defense (A&D) segment. The company highlighted that its A&D division is projected to become its largest and fastest-growing business by 2026, driven by a 15%+ growth in 2025 and over 20% in 2026, fueled by demand for secure domestic manufacturing under the 2026 NDAA. Key catalysts included an $18.5 million U.S. Air Force program for next-gen 3D printing technologies, a $7.65 million contract for large-format metal printers, and a Colorado facility expansion to boost production capacity. Collaborations with NASA, Penn State, and Arizona State University on thermal management solutions for spacecraft further underscored its technological edge in high-reliability defense and space applications. The news reinforced investor confidence in 3D Systems’ strategic position in the U.S. defense supply chain.