DOD spending $75M to boost test swab production

The Pentagon, using its authorities under Defense Production Act Title III, intends to award $75.5 million to Puritan Medical Products to increase production of medical swabs by 20 million per month starting in May.

The funds, according to Pentagon spokesman Lt. Col. Michael Andrews, will help Puritan "quickly establish a new manufacturing facility capable of doubling its current monthly output of 20 million to 40 million swabs."

Andrews said Puritan will build the facility in Pittsfield, ME, and is expected to add 150 jobs.

"The increased production and long-term industrial capacity will help support the needs of the nation," he said.