About Deadline Defense
Deadline Defense is a veteran-owned suppressor and small-arms technology manufacturer headquartered in Moore County, North Carolina. Founded by former U.S. Special Operations soldiers and defense industry professionals, the company develops next-generation suppressor systems designed to enhance hearing safety, reduce weapon signature, and deliver exceptional operational performance at an accessible price point.
Veteran-Owned & Operated
MEET THE FOUNDERS
Combined 40+ years of U.S. Special Forces experience. Real operators building real equipment.
Paul Ross
CEO
Paul spent two decades in U.S. Army Special Forces, deploying worldwide and leading high-stakes teams on sensitive missions. Paul was also trusted to lead the Special Forces Weapons Sergeant Course and brings both deep firearms expertise and combat-proven leadership. After service, he earned his MBA from The Citadel, and transitioned into defense manufacturing. There he served as President of OA Defense, leading a full operational turnaround, modernizing production, relocating facilities, and rebuilding the product line. He founded Deadline Defense to apply battlefield-driven design to next-generation suppressors: quieter, tougher, and more affordable for the end user.
Augest Berndt
CFO
Augest Berndt is a 20-year U.S. Army Special Forces veteran who served in one of the nation's premier direct-action units. He later led testing and procurement efforts for Special Operations, shaping equipment selection and capability development at the highest levels. After retiring from service, Augest was recruited by Daniel Defense as Military Sales Manager, where he secured over serveral million dollars in awarded defense contracts. As the founder of Deadline Defense, he brings battlefield credibility coupled with deep mastery in contracts, procurement, and government acquisition ensuring Deadline Defense can scale effectively into military and federal markets.