Heckler & Koch, which is building prototypes of the U.S. Army's new M-8 Assault Rifle, announced that it is building a factory in Columbus, Georgia. This plant will build weapons for military, law enforcement and civilian customers. This probably means that some of the M-8 work will be done here, as the Augusta plant is close to several large Army bases where the new M-8 will be tested. Initially, the new factory will employ 200 people, and will produce assault rifles and many of Heckler & Koch's popular police pistols. (like the USP 40 compact LEM). If the U.S. Army adopts the M-8. several hundred thousand would have to be built in a few years.