Granite Tactical of Pilot Mountain has announced its expansion into the 181,000-square-foot manufacturing facilities in Mount Airy formerly known as Kentucky Derby Hosiery #2 and #3 plants on Newsome Street. The company plans to employ 200 people and create a $2.5 million investment in the first three years of operation.

Chris Berman, president of the company, shared his excitement over the military interest in all of the research and development completed in the Pilot Mountain location, especially its crew capsule, to provide the highest level of protection available for the HMMWV (Humvee).

“We are very excited about the opportunity to manufacture in a larger production capacity as well as to continue to R&D new products for the military,” Berman said. “The local government has provided tremendous support and assistance as well as the Surry (Economic Development) Partnership.”

Granite Tactical Vehicles Inc. designs, develops, manufactures and delivers armored vehicles for a broad spectrum of clients including private security contractors, law enforcement and various government agencies. The company’s vehicles have been field tested with great success on missions including convoy protection, personnel movement and relocation, rescue operations and cargo delivery.

Ultimately and most importantly, the vehicles have contributed to saving the lives of many men and women who operate in hostile and austere environments, according to the company. Granite Tactical Vehicles is committed to providing best-in-class armored vehicles and protecting the lives of those who face the day-to-day challenges of rapidly increasing threat levels.

“We are pleased to be partnering with Granite Tactical in providing diversified jobs for our citizens and to be able to place them in the old KDH buildings of which I have a lot of fond memories in working there and is a much added bonus for all of our citizens,” said Surry County Commissioner Paul Johnson, chairman of the board.

Mount Airy Mayor Deborah Cochran said, “We enthusiastically welcome the expansion of Granite Tactical Vehicles, Inc. and the over 200 much needed jobs they will bring to Mount Airy. They will occupy one of our existing buildings and will make a significant investment in the buildings and equipment. We pledge our continued support to this company and welcome them as they join our existing successful industries in Mount Airy and Surry County.”

The Surry County Economic Development Partnership worked with many partners on this project including the city of Mount Airy, Surry County and the North Carolina Department of Commerce.