Gov. Greg Gianforte joined mining executives from the U.S. Antimony Corporation for a groundbreaking ceremony in Thompson Falls. The event Thursday celebrated the mine’s expansion, which will increase production fivefold.
Antimony is considered a “critical mineral” that’s used to develop military equipment, like night vision goggles, ammunition and nuclear weapons.
The United States Antimony Corporation has been operating in the state since the 1960s. The U.S. military recently gave the company a $245 million contract. The Montana mine was a key reason for the award.
"Montanans should be very proud of the contributions your state is making in this extremely important endeavor for our country," Antimony Corporation Chairman and CEO Gary Evans said.
The Department of Defense relied heavily on antimony from China until China banned exportation of the mineral to the U.S. last year.
Gianforte says this endeavor is a win for the state and the country. The expansion should be complete by the end of this year.
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