How 3D printing could revolutionise war and foreign policy

COMPLETELY DISRUPTIVE: With key patents running out this year, new printers that use metal, wood and fabric are set to become much more widely available

PARIS: 3D printing will revolutionise war and foreign policy, say experts, not only by making possible incredible new designs but by turning the defence industry — and possibly the entire global economy — on its head. 

For many, 3D printing still looks like a gimmick, used for printing useless plastic figurines and not much else.