Mack Defense has secured a contract to produce up to 450 M917A3 Heavy Dump Trucks (HDTs) for the US Army.
Costing up to $221.8 million, the deal will support the integration of new workhorse vehicles for the service’s active force, reserve force, and national guard operations.
Manufacturing will take place at Mack’s Experience Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania, a facility dedicated to HDT production since 2021 following a $6.5 million expansion, alongside its older Lehigh Valley plant in Macungie, Pennsylvania.
Upon delivery, the fleet will support construction and maintenance of airfields, roadways, landing strips, supply facilities, motor pools, and disaster relief in severe weather.
Expanding Workhorse Fleet
The M917A3 HDT remains a critical platform for the army’s Engineer Regiment, providing the mobility and durability needed for essential construction and infrastructure missions in diverse environments, according to Mack Defense.
The latest contract follows an initial 2018 award for up to 683 trucks valued at $296 million. To date, the military has ordered 549 M917A3 HDTs from Mack Defense.
In February, the army placed an order for an additional 103 trucks under the existing framework. Seventy-four are funded through the presidential budget, while the National Guard will purchase the remaining 29.
“From day one, we’ve worked hard to foster a transparent, collaborative relationship – one that has helped ensure this program remains on track, on time and aligned with the Army’s evolving needs,” Derik Beck, senior director of sales, marketing, and business development at Mack Defense, commented on the new award.
“As we move into the next phase, we’re committed to maintaining that level of engagement while also looking to our Congressional stakeholders for sustained support. This program is not only vital to Army readiness but also to preserving critical manufacturing jobs and capabilities within our US industrial base.”
The M917A3 HDT System
Mack Defense’s M917A3 HDT is a ruggedized platform based on the firm’s commercially available Granite model to meet unique military requirements.
It features heavy-duty rear axles, all-wheel drive, increased suspension ride height, and a diesel engine compatible with JP8 fuel commonly used by the military, allowing a top speed of 65 miles (105 kilometers) per hour and a range of about 400 miles (640 kilometers).
Powered by a Mack MP8 engine delivering 520 horsepower, the HDT can carry up to 27 tons (54,000 pounds) of payload and 18 cubic yards (14 cubic meters) of materials in its module.
Advanced technology includes anti-lock braking, user-friendly control interfaces, and active safety systems designed to enhance operational performance and crew safety.
