A cornerstone of this agreement is the implementation of a “closed loop” upcycling program. Using the proprietary UniMelt® microwave production system, 6K Additive will transform AGF Defcom’s manufacturing scrap—both solids and powder—back into premium metal powder. This initiative ensures a secure,100% domestic supply chain while significantly reducing material waste and production costs.

Zoltan Kovacs, owner and CEO of AGF Defcom said, “The suppressor market is accelerating at an unprecedented pace, and our investment in additive manufacturing is driving significant interest. To succeed with this technology, high-quality powder is a non-negotiable requirement. While partnering with 6K Additive ensures a premium domestic supply, the ability to upcycle our scrap is the real game changer. We have successfully transformed what was once a logistical and financial burden into a high-value asset that directly improves our bottom line.”

The suppressor industry has entered a period of explosive growth in 2026, primarily catalyzed by the removal of the $200 federal tax stamp. This regulatory shift has unleashed significant pent-up demand, leading to an unprecedented surge in applications and a diversified market for lower-priced consumer options. Industry analysts have officially dubbed 2026 the “Year of the Suppressor,” forecasting record-breaking sales and a massive influx of first-time buyers. This high-volume environment creates a unique opening for advanced manufacturing techniques—particularly 3D printing—to scale production, even as the industry navigates potential fulfillment delays.

Additive Manufacturing Research’s Executive Vice President of Research Scott Dunham said, “The additive suppressor market is one we’ve been watching since 2017, and its impact today on metal additive manufacturing is undeniable. Additive technologies have enabled both business model innovation and product innovation in the area of suppressors, and within 5 years Additive Manufacturing Research expects a penetration of metal AM technologies into this market exceeding 70 percent. Reminiscent of what polymer printing did to the hearing aid industry in the late 2000s, and what continues to happen today in space and rocket propulsion, suppressors are the latest market that will flip to an additive dominant production this decade. It’s therefore important for stakeholders to be able to continue to bring a solid value proposition in this area to accelerate the transition and push the AM industry forward as a whole.”

“With the suppressor market growing at a staggering 265% in just five years, teaming up with AGF Defcom is a perfect strategic fit. They have a 25-year legacy of manufacturing excellence, and we are excited to support their high-growth trajectory,” explained Frank Roberts, CEO of 6K Additive. “Beyond the business expansion, AGF Defcom truly understands the importance of converting scrap into high-performance powder. The fact that we are both U.S. suppliers makes this collaboration even more significant for the defense sector and domestic manufacturing.”

About 6K Additive

6K Additive, Inc. (ASX:6KA) is a US-based manufacturer and trusted supplier of premium metal powders for additive manufacturing and alloy additions for the aluminum melt industry, all made from sustainable sources. Headquartered in Burgettstown, PA, the Company’s manufacturing process produces the highest quality metal powders that are truly spherical, void of porosity and satellites with better unit economics than competing technologies. 6K Additive utilizes proprietary UniMelt® microwave plasma system to produce the industry’s most comprehensive portfolio of metal powder including a variety of Nickel, Titanium, Copper, and refractory powders that include, Tungsten, Rhenium, Niobium/C-103 and Tantalum. 6K Additive leverages feedstock such as certified turnings, millings, used additive powder, support material and failed builds that provide customers sustainable, domestically sourced metal powder.

Axtra3D® announces Axtra Workflow, a fully connected and validated end-to-end additive manufacturing ecosystem that links build setup, printing, post-processing, inspection, and data-driven traceability into a single production backbone.

The Advanced Materials Challenge was designed for industry and academia from across the nation to accelerate the delivery of innovative material solutions for DoW applications, including utilizing LIFT’s Advanced Metallics Production & Processing (AMPP) center, which was opened earlier this year, aimed at solving a critical gap in addressing advanced materials challenges across the U.S. industrial base.

Located at LIFT’s Detroit headquarters and advanced manufacturing facility, the new center delivers high quality metal powder, wire and rod feedstocks across all alloy classes at a development scale to support the diverse breadth of additive manufacturing processes on the market today, curated by LIFT’s team of materials scientists.

The three projects are:

• Enabling robust cross-platform printing of structural high-strength aluminums and aluminum matrix composites with Elementum 3D. The project will develop and test a new approach to produce Elementum 3D’s Reactive Additive Manufacturing (RAM) aluminum AM feedstocks to enhance print quality and uniformity across machine makes. Elementum 3D will design RAM alloy formulations for printing using Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) systems and perform analysis of the samples printed. LIFT will produce the novel RAM powder in its AMPP center’s gas atomization system and conduct AM parameter development.

• Development of Ti-Cu-X Alloy with Refined Microstructure and Enhance Mechanical Properties Using Wire-Based Additive Manufacturing Processes with Raytheon Technologies Research Center (RTRC). The project is aimed at developing a novel Ti-Cu-X alloy specifically tailored for wire-based additive manufacturing (AM) processes, with a focus on achieving a refined microstructure to enhance mechanical properties suitable for replacing aluminum stator compressor components, replacing Titanium alloys for engine rotors, and repairing titanium components in aerospace applications. LIFT will optimize the use of a Plasma Multi-Wire Additive Manufacturing (PMWAAM) process through the use of a multi wire feeder and directed energy for the in-situ alloying processes. LIFT also plans to leverage the Field-Assisted Sintering Technology (FAST) process for the production of Ti-Cu-X alloys.

• Virtual Qualification and Certification of an Advanced Structural Material Leveraging (ML) Advanced Data-driven Approaches with EOS North America. The project aims to revolutionize qualification and certification of advanced materials of interest to DoW by leveraging AI and ML. By utilizing data-driven qualification and certification with Texas A&M, creating a user-friendly interface through advancements created by 3Degrees, and with the demonstration of PBFM builds by LIFT , it seeks to replace traditional qualification framework with efficient, data-driven approaches, reducing costs, lengthy post-build testing, and improving material and process readiness for overall efficient and faster qualification for DoW-specific application.

“As a technology accelerator, it is incumbent upon us to work with our network of members across the country to drive innovation in materials, processes, and systems faster,” said Noel Mack, Chief Technology Officer, LIFT. “We are thrilled to have had so many proposals for really innovative projects and are excited to have these three launched.”

LIFT, in partnership with the Department of War, held an open project call last year seeking proposals to focus on identifying an advanced material of interest to DoW, design using decision aid tools and automation tools, prototyping both virtual and physical material systems (i.e. Digital Twin), and demonstrating the material’s applicability in a DoW component or system.

About LIFT

LIFT, operated by the American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute, is the Detroit-based, public-private partnership between the Department of War, industry, and academia, committed to the development and deployment of advanced manufacturing technologies, and implementing talent development initiatives to better prepare the workforce today and in the future. LIFT funded in part by the Department of War with management through the Office of Naval Research.

Threaded metal inserts designed for plastic allow for strong, re-usable metal threads to be put into 3D printed parts. These inserts can be installed in several different ways, ranging from press-in installation (E-Z Press and E-Z Fin) to heat-staking with a soldering iron (E-Z Sonic).

E-Z Press & E-Z Fin (Finserts) threaded inserts for plastic offer unparalleled ease and reliability for advanced 3D printing. Their design ensures a quick and straightforward installation process, saving time and reducing labor efforts. Furthermore, the strong hold they provide ensures longevity and reliability in all projects.

E-Z Sonic heat stake inserts can be installed with a soldering iron work by heating the insert to a temperature beyond the melting point of the thermoplastic. Holes are printed or drilled and the heat stake insert is pushed into place, melting the plastic around it. E-Z Sonic inserts work well with 3D printing applications and products made from similar materials.

E-Z LOK offers both the E-Z Sonic and E-Z Press inserts in assortment kits that contain a variety of either metric or imperial threaded inserts and matching installation tools.

About E-Z LOK

E-Z LOK is a leading manufacturer and master distributor of threaded inserts for metal, plastic and wood. Inserts for metal include solid wall and helical wire-thread inserts, while inserts for plastic feature press-in and ultrasonic/heat stake designs. Those for wood are die-cast zinc alloy in hex drives for softwood and brass knife threads for hardwood. A variety of kits are available and feature installation tools, drill bits etc.

E-Z LOK is a third-generation family owned and operated company. Founded in 1956, it primarily sells North American OEM’s, end users and the DIY market through local, regional and national industrial distributors.

TIMTOS 2025 showcased six major industry trends: precision machine tools, key components, full-scale automation and smart manufacturing, digital twin-driven integration, additive manufacturing, and expanded cross-industry applications. Innovations from Taiwan’s machinery sector were displayed across aerospace, automotive, medical, and consumer industries, reinforcing Taiwan’s leadership in precision manufacturing and intelligent automation.

AI & Robotics Take Center Stage
This year’s theme, “AI & Robotics,” highlighted essential components like harmonic reducers and joint modules for humanoid robots. Leading exhibitors HIWIN, CPC, and Main Drive introduced innovative solutions. HIWIN expanded into robot-related components, CPC developed joint modules, and Main Drive launched a production line with an annual capacity of 100,000 harmonic reducers. Taiwanese companies are now positioned as key players in the humanoid robot supply chain, with applications in healthcare, hospitality, and service industries.

Global Industry Leaders Praise TIMTOS 2025
Industry leaders, including Fair Friend Group (FFG), Tongtai, Quaser, Kao Ming, YCM, and SOCO, along with global controller manufacturers Siemens, Heidenhain, FANUC, and Mitsubishi, commended TIMTOS 2025’s success. Heidenhain and Mitsubishi Taiwan showcased Digital Twin technology, improving machining efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness while aligning with smart manufacturing and sustainability goals.

Despite the digital era, in-person interactions remain crucial. FFG reported over 100 orders spanning automotive, aerospace, semiconductors, rail transport, and energy. Quaser secured NT$1 billion in orders for hydrogen energy and medical devices, while Tongtai entered the semiconductor market with ultrasonic machining and additive manufacturing. These advancements reinforce Taiwan’s role as a key supplier for aerospace, semiconductors, EVs, medical, and green energy industries.

Successful Procurement Matchmaking
TAITRA’s procurement matchmaking event facilitated 315 sessions between 75 international buyers from 22 countries and 102 exhibitors. Buyers came from the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Japan, Poland, Vietnam, India, Israel, and Ukraine. A specialized networking event for the cutting tool sector introduced buyers from 14 countries, including the U.S., Germany, Mexico, and India. Exhibitors like MEGA Machine reported a 70% order placement rate, with instant orders from Bulgaria and the Middle East.

Exciting Events and Future Outlook
TIMTOS 2025 featured engaging forums, including the TIMTOS Keynote, where THK Chairman & CEO Akihiro Teramachi emphasized AI-driven automation and talent development. Techman Robot’s CEO, Haw Chen, introduced Taiwan’s only AI-driven collaborative robot, demonstrating AI’s transformative potential in smart manufacturing.

For the first time, the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion and Taiwan Patent Go Pavilion debuted, showcasing Taiwan’s innovation in smart machinery and cross-industry applications. These pavilions attracted significant interest from international buyers, further enhancing Taiwan’s global reputation.

TIMTOS will return in March 2027. Stay updated via www.timtos.com.tw and our social media pages.

Attendees will learn how the innovative 5-axis automatic tool orientation mode in hyperMILL® 2025 ensures optimized machining, guaranteeing efficient and reliable tool paths on the most complex components. The 5-axis automatic tool orientation mode algorithm uses a pre-analysis of the entire tool path to calculate machining sequences of simultaneous and indexed tool movements, reducing the number of inputs required for 5-axis machining and saving time when programming challenging parts.

A new, fast, easy, and safe 5-axis hole deburring strategy excels at deburring sharp edges on holes and intersecting holes. By using CAM Plan programming assistance and analysis technology to automatically recognize all the holes, the sharp edges in the model are marked for selecting the desired edges. The hole deburring technology automatically calculates toolpaths, and supports 3-axis and 5-axis modes. Also, hyperMILL® now offers a 5-axis deburring strategy for fast and efficient deburring of component edges. Users may choose between 3-axis machining and a 5-axis option which enables greater reach to more component edges, automatically generating the required inclinations as well as collision avoidance.

The pocket milling algorithm for high feed cutters in hyperMILL® 2025 has been redeveloped for 3D-optimized roughing, achieving greater efficiency during roughing as well as better machining control, especially helpful when machining large lateral in-feeds and remaining material. Contour and path radii can also be defined, resulting in improved toolpath rounding.

Linking movements via hyperMILL® VIRTUAL Machining Optimizer have been further optimized for actual stock conditions with new Dynamic Stock technology. Using Dynamic Stock, an updated stock is automatically generated for all machining jobs and accounted for when calculating linking movements.

About OPEN MIND Technologies AG

OPEN MIND Technologies AG is one of the world’s leading developers of powerful CAD/CAM software solutions for machine and controller-independent programming. OPEN MIND develops optimized CAD/CAM solutions that include innovative and unique features that can deliver significantly higher performance in both programming and machining. hyperMILL® is a completely modular CAD/CAM solution that provides state-of-the-art CAM technologies on its own CAD platform: from 2.5D, 3D and 5-axis machining as well as turning strategies and solutions for additive manufacturing, HSC and HPC machining. Whether automation, simulation or virtual machine – trendsetting technologies expand the product range and enable continuous digital process chains. Special applications, seamless interaction with all popular CAD solutions and exceptional customer service rounds out the company’s products and capabilities.

According to the “NC Market Analysis Report 2024” compiled by CIMdata, hyperMILL® is a leading, worldwide CAD/CAM solution. Innovative CAD/CAM technologies fulfill the highest demands in the automotive, tool and mold manufacturing, production machining, medical, job shops, energy, semiconductor and aerospace industries. OPEN MIND is a Mensch und Maschine company and has subsidiaries and qualified sales partners on all continents.

Siemens worked with Chinedum Okwudire, professor of mechanical engineering at U-M, and Dr. Nathaniel Wood to design the course. It provides essential information about methods of printing using metals, how they work, their advantages and limitations, and most importantly, their practical applications.

“Metals additive manufacturing has huge potential to revolutionize how products are delivered, enabling freedom of form and mass customization at an industrial scale. To realize that potential, industry needs a workforce that is knowledgeable about all aspects of the processes, how best to implement them to solve real engineering challenges and avoid the common pitfalls,” said Aaron Frankel vice president, Part Manufacturing New Solutions Introduction and Additive Manufacturing, Siemens Digital Industries Software. “Our work with U-M brings together their team’s research knowledge with our industrial expertise to deliver an accessible and open educational resource that will help provide the next generation of engineers with the skills they need to change the world.”

“The goal of this course is to broaden the knowledge and engagement in metal additive manufacturing across a diverse and global audience that can help advance society through this game-changing technology,” said Okwudire. “Siemens’ support, both from a financial and knowledge point of view has been instrumental in the development of this course and we look forward to building a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce trained in metal additive manufacturing.”

Available on Coursera, the ‘Introduction to 3D Printing with Metals’ course covers basic, desktop forms of 3D printing with metals to more complex processes, such as powder bed fusion, jetting-based and direct energy deposition processes – from pre-processing and design for additive manufacturing to post-processing and part-finishing. Participants learn about 3D printing and additive manufacturing with metals through examples and interviews with industry experts and gain hands-on experience with 3D printing within a smartphone or desktop-accessible augmented reality experience.

About Siemens Digital Industries Software

Siemens Digital Industries Software helps organizations of all sizes digitally transform using software, hardware and services from the Siemens Xcelerator business platform. Siemens’ software and the comprehensive digital twin enable companies to optimize their design, engineering and manufacturing processes to turn today’s ideas into the sustainable products of the future. From chips to entire systems, from product to process, across all industries. Siemens Digital Industries Software – Accelerating transformation.

A decisive step toward sustainability, efficiency, and industrialization

Large-format 3D printing technology is transforming the nautical sector by offering competitive advantages such as highly customizable designs, efficient material usage, and a significant reduction in environmental impact.

This boat is a tangible example of how advanced 3D printing processes can accelerate production times, minimize material waste, and enable the creation of high-quality floating structures and boats tailored to the growing demands of a global market.

Notably, this project was conceived with a long-term vision, meticulously analyzing every step of the process to lay the groundwork for future industrialization of such boats. From material selection to the optimization of printing times, assembly, and testing, every aspect has been carefully refined to identify the key elements needed to scale production efficiently, sustainably, and economically. This strategic approach is crucial for turning this technology into a widely applicable solution in the nautical sector.

A promising future for the nautical industry

This achievement not only demonstrates the feasibility of robotic large-format 3D printing but also establishes the foundation for a new era in the manufacturing of boats and nautical components.

V2 Group and Caracol AM are committed to the continuous improvement of this manufacturing approach to broaden its applications in this sector, including transitioning toward the industrialization of the process. This will pave the way for a more scalable, sustainable, and accessible production model within the sector.

The collaboration between these two European companies strengthens their leadership in nautical and naval innovation, positioning 3D printing as a key solution to tackle the future challenges of the industry. With a clear focus on industrialization, the potential of this technology to transform nautical production is virtually limitless.

About CARACOL

CARACOL was founded in 2017 in Milan, Italy, with the vision of pushing the limits of additive manufacturing in terms of scale, efficiency, and sustainability. The company accomplished this by developing an integrated technological platform, including both hardware and software, to produce advanced large-scale components. Through the integration of a patented extrusion head, the development of dedicated software – Eidos Manufacturing, and the use of robotic arms as movement support, Caracol offers additive manufacturing technology for advanced components for customers in industries such as aerospace, marine, energy, design, and architecture. Heron AM manufactures parts such as jigs and molds for aircraft components, finished parts for yacht and boat superstructures, or revolutionary projects to initiate virtuous circular economy processes for the energy or design sectors. Vipra AM is the latest launched LFAM system to produce large-scale metal applications in the most demanding industries such as aerospace, energy, construction and shipbuilding. Today, the company has opened the largest LFAM production center in Europe, a production facility in Austin (TX), USA opened in August 2023, and a commercial office in Dubai, has a core team of over 80 international professionals with highly specialized competences, in areas such as mechanical engineering, automation, computational design, design for additive, and advanced manufacturing processes.

About V2 GROUP

V2 Group is a Spanish company dedicated to manufacturing components and boats using 3D printing technologies. Born as a startup, it is currently in the midst of a funding round to raise capital that will enable it to scale its business to the next level.

Andrew Thompson, Deputy Chief Engineer, Additive Manufacturing, at Northrop Grumman Space Systems, has been appointed chair of the RMAG. In this role, he will lead the group’s strategic direction, drive key initiatives, recruit new members, engage working groups, and organize meetings. He will also oversee the strategic-level roadmap, collaborating with America Makes to maintain data, align priorities, brief the Executive Committee on project call topics, and ensure the roadmap advances the Institute’s mission.

At Northrop Grumman, Thompson is responsible for the development and implementation of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies. He has extensive experience in designing, developing, and utilizing aerospace components and systems, as well as expertise in AM techniques for manufacturing these components. Thompson’s previous career roles have led to his knowledge of managing assembly integration, test operations, and additive processes. He has successfully led cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions that exceed requirements.

“Andrew’s expertise in additive manufacturing and his leadership within the industry make him an excellent choice to chair the Roadmap Advisory Group,” stated Brandon Ribic, Ph.D., America Makes Technology Director. “His strategic vision and commitment to collaboration will be instrumental in guiding the group’s efforts, ensuring that our roadmap remains aligned with the evolving needs of the AM ecosystem. We look forward to working with him to drive impactful advancements in the field.”

Executive Committee

Rick Russell has been named the chairperson of the America Makes Executive Committee. In this role, he will lead a distinguished group of industry experts across academia, government, workforce and economic development organizations, ensuring that the right strategies, policies, and advocacy efforts are in place to advance the Institute’s mission. This committee plays a critical role in guiding America Makes as it works to accelerate AM adoption and strengthen U.S. manufacturing competitiveness globally.

Committee members bring deep industry expertise and insights into the current and future state of AM, advising the Institute on technical priorities, membership value, ecosystem and partnership strategies, and workforce development initiatives.

Russell is a Principal ADDvisor® with The Barnes Global Advisors and specializes in Metal AM certification and qualification. His journey in AM began nearly 15 years ago as the Materials and Processes and Fracture Control Lead for NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, where he helped develop pathways to certify critical AM hardware for human spaceflight applications. Later, as NASA Technical Fellow for Materials, he led the team that authored NASA-STD-6030 “Additive Manufacturing Requirements for Spaceflight Systems.” Russell also has a long history of engagement with America Makes, having previously served on the Roadmap Advisory Group (RMAG).

Alongside Russell’s leadership, Sandra DeVincent Wolf, Ph.D., will serve as Secretary of the Executive Committee. Dr. Wolf is the Executive Director of the Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) Manufacturing Futures Institute, where she works to identify, connect, leverage, and accelerate manufacturing research at CMU. She is also the Executive Director of the CMU NextManufacturing Center, a hub for AM research. She leads the center’s activities, partnerships, and industry consortiums while also serving as Director of the metals AM laboratories.

Before joining CMU in 2015, Dr. Wolf spent 15 years in research, development, engineering, and management in advanced materials and manufacturing. She also has over a decade of experience in executive management within professional materials associations, where she led initiatives from conception through implementation and assessment.

John Wilczynski, Executive Director of America Makes, expressed his enthusiasm for Russell and Dr. Wolf’s appointments, stating, “Rick and Sandra are both highly respected leaders in the additive community, and we are excited to have them in these key roles. Rick’s extensive experience in AM certification and qualification, along with his strong grasp of industry needs, will be crucial in guiding the Executive Committee, while Sandra’s leadership in manufacturing research and her ability to foster collaboration will further enhance our strategic initiatives. They undoubtedly will help drive the Institute’s mission forward and strengthen the Institute’s overall impact.”

The joint venture partners specialize in custom built and standard machines for automotive, aerospace, defense, and energy applications. The partners sell and service their machines worldwide and both have many decades of experience in their respective business.

Customers of both companies are expected to benefit from the resulting technologically advanced, precise, and tailor-made solutions that meet their highest manufacturing requirements.

The joint venture focuses on:

1. The research, development and improvement of machine production
2. The further development of the software suits running their machines
3. Energy savings and noise reduction in hydraulic systems
4. Cost reduction and improving customer service

“This joint venture between WF Maschinenbau and MJC Engineering ensures that our expertise in chipless metal forming benefits customers across various industries worldwide,” explains Christophe Permantier, CEO of the mpool group. Carl Lorentzen, Chairman of MJC Engineering, adds: “By combining our efforts in these areas, we are creating a powerhouse of engineering excellence which will push the boundaries of metal forming technology, improving efficiency, sustainability and performance”.

The combined expertise of both companies significantly accelerates innovation and advances the development of sustainable, environmentally friendly solutions. In particular, ecological aspects will play a central role in the future of hydraulic systems, helping to revolutionize the industry with energy-efficient and resource-saving applications.

“The joint venture strengthens our innovation capacity and expands our portfolio with crucial, future-oriented solutions in chipless metal forming,” says Christian Malkemper, CEO of WF Maschinenbau.

Both companies will remain independent legal entities. Further growth is expected at both partners, leading to additional job creation and reinforcing their international presence.

About WF Maschinenbau

Founded in 1975 in Sendenhorst, Germany, WF Maschinenbau und Blechformtechnik GmbH & Co. KG has been developing and manufacturing highly efficient forming machines for 50 years and is considered an innovation leader in metal spinning. Since June 2016, the company, which employs around 120 people, has been part of the mpool group in Düsseldorf. WF Maschinenbau specializes in forming processes such as spinning, flow forming, necking-in, and profiling. The company’s machines, produced in Germany, are highly regarded internationally and are used in industrial applications worldwide, including the automotive industry, aerospace, energy, environmental technology, and defense sectors. WF Maschinenbau is the only manufacturer operating a research center for metal forming, where new manufacturing processes are continuously developed in collaboration with customers.

About MJC Engineering & Technology, Inc.

Founded in 1994, MJC was originally a division of a high-pressure cylinder manufacturer in Huntington Beach, CA. MJC’s founders started with custom built custom machines for their former employer as these types of machines were either not offered or not sufficiently customized at that time. Taking a “Customer First” approach, MJC’s focuses on offering customized solutions through an innovative and unconventional approach that has positioned MJC as a trusted supplier to metal forming industries worldwide. Broadening its machine program over the past 30 years, MJC is represented in the aerospace, military, high-pressure cylinder, ventilation, robotics, and medical technology industries. Today, all private rocket companies in the United States use MJC machines in their factories. MJC Engineering has become the recognized leader in metal spinning and metal flow forming machines in the USA.