In December 2016, only few days before the parliamentary elections, construction of a factory for weapons, ammunition and equipment of the American company Broadstone Defense started in the area of Makedonski Brod.
According to the investments, this investment will reach 4.65 million euros (5 million USD) and should create 200 new employments. The factory should be finished by May 2017 and start with production in July.
In his address, the Minister of Defense Mr.Zoran Jolevski emphasized that Broadstone Defense would transfer the latest technologies to Makedonski Brod, from where the American army and the NATO member states shall be receiving armaments and ammunition.
“This investment is important for several reasons. In addition to opening of new jobs, Macedonia will also receive a latest production facility for ammunition and personal armament in accordance with the NATO standards. Furthermore, this is also very important step in strengthening of the combat readiness of the Army of the Republic of Macedonia”, said Mr.Jolevski.
Broadstone Defense considered several possible locations for the factory but they finally selected Macedonia because, in words of the founder, Mr.Denis Pratt, of its excellent geostrategic position and favorable business climate. “Broadstone Defense” shall employ 200 people in the next few years. The employments will start in April 2017 when we shall be engaging local workers, former military staff, persons with experience in dealing with firearms and ammunition, including administrative staff”, said Mr.Pratt.
Back in November 2016, the former Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski also announced this investment at the rally of VMRO-DPMNE party in Makedonski Brod.
The Broadstone Security DOO Skopje company was established in May 2016 with founding capital of 5,600 USD.