In western China, researchers have developed a revolutionary "shark skin" structure inside a turbofan engine to reduce drag by 10% and significantly improve efficiency. This technology is based on a strong, large-scale titanium alloy precision 3D printing, potentially helping China surpass the U.S. and its allies in the next generation of aircraft engine competition. The U.S. Air Force's decision to upgrade existing engines presents a window of opportunity for China to make advancements. China's increasing use of 3D printing technology in aero-engine production is steadily narrowing the technological gap with the U.S.
