India’s first 3D-printed military insignia arch unveiled in Jhansi Cantonment
Developed by Hyderabad-based deeptech company Simpliforge in collaboration with IIT Hyderabad, the structure features a commanding tiger-face façade symbolising the strength and spirit of the Indian Armed Forces.
Hyderabad deeptech firm Simpliforge and IIT Hyderabad deliver landmark defence-infrastructure project
New Delhi, November 18: India’s defence infrastructure marked a technological milestone with the unveiling of the country’s first and largest 3D concrete–printed Military Insignia Entrance Arch at the Jhansi Cantonment. Developed by Hyderabad-based deeptech company Simpliforge in collaboration with IIT Hyderabad, the structure features a commanding tiger-face façade symbolising the strength and spirit of the Indian Armed Forces.
The arch, which leads into the cantonment’s indoor sports arena, measures 5.7 metres in width, 3.2 metres in depth and 5.4 metres in height. It has been fabricated using a robotic-arm–based 3D concrete printing system, showcasing how digital construction can transform defence-focused infrastructure. The project was conceptualised under the guidance of Colonel Akhil Singh Charak and jointly developed with IIT Hyderabad’s structural engineering experts.
Officials involved in the project described the installation as a fusion of engineering, creativity and national pride. Colonel Charak said the arch embodies the ethos of the armed forces—“Naam, Namak, Nishan”—and stands as a symbol of honour and forward-looking military vision. IIT Hyderabad’s KVL Subramaniam highlighted how the tiger-themed façade demonstrates the power of advanced 3D printing to create complex, organic geometries using locally sourced materials and customised mixes.
Simpliforge founder and COO Faizan Chaudhary said the tiger structure was completed in a record 45 days, reflecting the potential of indigenous 3D printing technologies to deliver faster, safer and more innovative construction for strategic applications. The company says the Jhansi arch is an example of how digital fabrication can enable future-ready structures that combine speed, precision and architectural expression.
About the project
Built for the Indian Army inside the Jhansi Cantonment, the arch uses a 3D-printed mortar developed with local materials. The project’s technology advisory and structural design were provided by experts at IIT Hyderabad, with development led by Simpliforge. Officials say the success of the project demonstrates a scalable model for next-generation defence infrastructure powered by Indian deeptech capabilities.
