Ammunition primers and energetics manufacturer, White River Energetics (WRE), plans to spend $70 million to expand its ammunition primer plant in Des Arc as well as add 100 jobs.
The project will also include a $10 million expansion of its current operations and a $60 million investment to build a new smokeless propellant factory, addressing a global shortage affecting munitions availability.
“We are proud of all the people and employees who have worked tirelessly to support WRE and make this happen,” said BJ Rogers, Vice President of Operations at D&M Holding Company. “Having grown up in Des Arc, I’m personally proud to see the successes that have been made with primers and look forward to continued success in the future production of propellant.”
During the announcement Friday, Governor Sanders joined WRE officials in celebration of new jobs coming to Des Arc. “I’m proud of the 100 new jobs and the $70 million investment we are announcing in a small town in Arkansas that I know will have a big impact,” Sanders said in her announcement.
Des Arc Mayor Roger Scott showed support for the WRE expansion project.
“I’m grateful that WRE chose Des Arc as their facility site and extremely excited about this expansion phase that will create approximately 100 new jobs in this area,” Scott said. “WRE is a remarkable asset to this community. They are very supportive of Des Arc and are involved in the community activities. In this economy, it’s important to have local jobs available so our citizens aren’t forced to go out of town for employment.”
The expanded facility will increase WRE’s capacity to produce energetics for domestic and international clients.
Construction on the expansion has already begun and is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI