They’ve got nukes though, and plenty of conventional fire power (compared to Ukraine when it was invaded).

They need to invest in a non US lead command structure as that’s all using US tech and personnel.

British Private Schools:

Fagging was a traditional practice in British public schools and also at many other boarding schools, whereby younger pupils were required to act as personal servants to the eldest boys.[1][2][3] Although probably originating earlier, the first accounts of fagging appeared in the late 17th century.[4]: 23  Fagging sometimes involved physical abuse[4]: 23–25  and/or sexual abuse.[5] Although lessening in severity over the centuries, the practice continued in some institutions until the end of the 20th century.[4]: 23–25

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fagging

This was my gut feel. Like the “Trip Wire” forces NATO members deploy along the Russian border States.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tripwire_force

I’ve never really understood the 3D gun printing use case.

Yes, they can fire bullets but bullets are illegal where guns are illegal.

Am I missing something?

There were cases where decommissioned guns could be bought in the UK (firing pins removed). Gangs were recommissioning these guns by adding the removed components.

However, where do the bullets come from?