Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) US, Inc., a gun company, plans to relocate its headquarters and major operations from Pennsylvania to Anderson County, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced Monday. 

“Tennessee is leading the nation as the best place to live, work and raise a family, and I’m proud to announce that IWI US has chosen to relocate its operations to the Volunteer State,” Lee said.

The company plans to invest $15.7 million and create 72 new jobs in Andersonville, according to a  spokesperson from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (ECD).

“This move enables us to expand our operations, enhance production capabilities and create new opportunities for growth and collaboration,” said IWI CEO Casey Flack. “As we establish our presence in Andersonville, we remain firmly committed to upholding the highest standards of quality and innovation while becoming an engaged and supportive member of the local community.”

IWI started operating in 2013; its parent company began in Israel. It specializes in making firearms for commercial sale as well as for law enforcement and the government. State officials  said this move will put the company closer to its customer base nationwide.

Lieutenant Governor Randy McNally (R-Oak Ridge) said, “IWI US’s decision to invest and bring new jobs to Anderson County is another welcome vote of confidence for Tennessee’s highly skilled workforce, business-friendly climate and pro-Second Amendment environment.”

Anderson County Mayor Terry Frank said the facility will be located on Mountain Road. ECD says that IWI US will locate in a existing building and do renovations.

Israel Military Industries Ltd. began firearms productions in 1933, according to the company website. IMI began working with the Israel Defense Forces in the 1950s to develop the most technologically advanced small arms systems “based upon the demands of troops fighting in urban areas and harsh environments.”

In 2005, the Israeli government decided to spin off and privatize the small arms division of IMI, creating Israel Weapon Industries Ltd.

“The joint research and development team of IWI and the IDF continue to develop small arms based upon the dynamic changes in real world applications due to the ongoing threat of global terrorism,” their website notes. https://iwi.us/our-story/ 

Steve Gill is editor and publisher of TriStar Daily.