Innovative Auburn Project Expands to Military Applications

A small initiative that kicked off in Auburn back in 2019 might do more than just help injured football players—it’s poised to assist wounded soldiers return to the battlefield as well.

XO Armor, a leader in on-site 3D printing for creating custom-fit protective gear for various sports teams, has been selected for the inaugural cohort of the Montgomery TechLab’s (MTL) Defense Accelerator. This recognition highlights XO Armor’s ambitions to grow within the defense sector, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to meet crucial military needs.

Emerging from the Biomechanical Engineering Research Institute at Auburn University (Aube Lab), XO Armor’s flexible technology has extended its reach beyond athletics to various healthcare applications and, more recently, military readiness scenarios.

The company’s unique capacity to rapidly produce tailor-made devices on-site aligns well with the U.S. Army’s increasing use of additive manufacturing. This approach is seen as vital for overcoming the logistical hurdles that the military faces in contested environments. Recent discussions have highlighted the relevance of these innovations in addressing challenges faced by combat systems.

The 8-week MTL Defense Accelerator Program offers XO Armor a chance to deepen its engagement with the Department of Defense.

“The companies chosen for this initial group demonstrate a remarkable commitment to enhancing our nation’s defense while also fostering innovation in Alabama,” mentioned Challis Stokes, Executive Director of TechMgm and the liaison for the Montgomery TechLab.

Joe Bingold, the CEO of XO Armor, stated that participation in the MTL Defense Accelerator will enhance connections with the U.S. Air Force.

“This program not only boosts our interaction with Department of Defense stakeholders but also sharpens our business model and commercialization strategies,” Bingold explained. “As Navy veterans, it’s encouraging to witness the new levels of collaboration developing across various sectors of the Department of Defense. Programs like the Montgomery TechLab are really boosting military sustainability.”

Michael Zabara, the Associate Professor and Director of Aube Lab, and the founder of XO Armor, referred to the potential partnerships as “a compelling demonstration of how Auburn Engineering Research can lead to real-world impacts.”

“It’s fulfilling to see what began in Orb Lab for Auburn football players evolve into technology that can directly support the U.S. military,” he concluded.