Governor Greg Gianforte cut the ribbon on the new headquarters and production facility for Ultimate Defense Technologies in Billings, a weapons safety manufacturer expected to create nearly 90 jobs for Montanans.
“Thanks to our pro-business policies and strong Second Amendment heritage, businesses like Ultimate Defense Technologies are choosing to relocate to Montana,” Gov. Gianforte said. “We will continue to attract firearms and ammunition businesses to create more good-paying jobs in our state.”
Originally founded in the United Kingdom, Ultimate Defense Technologies moved its headquarters from Arizona to Montana after discussions with Gov. Gianforte and the Montana Department of Commerce Business Attraction Team at the 2023 SHOT Show in Las Vegas.
Co-Founder Neil Oakshott was motivated to develop the Spartan Guardian, a weapon safety system, after a neighbor accidentally discharged a handgun at home. The system utilizes RFID technology to securely hold a firearm while providing access through cards, tags, rings, or wristbands.
The new facility will serve as the production hub for this innovative safety system. During the opening ceremony, Oakshott emphasized the company’s commitment to job creation and plans to establish an apprenticeship program aimed at providing opportunities for often-overlooked individuals, including veterans and people with special needs.
Montana boasts over 150 firearms and ammunition businesses, the highest per capita in the nation. In support of this industry, Gov. Gianforte has taken measures to protect Montanans’ retirement security from Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing and has defended the state’s firearms industry against discrimination.
Since taking office, the governor has also made Montana a constitutional carry state and prohibited the enforcement of federal laws that infringe on the ownership and use of firearms, magazines, and accessories.
By: DNU staff