Mack Defense receives initial US Army order for 86 Heavy Dump Trucks

Mack Defense announced on 7 October 2025 that has received an initial order for 86 M917A3 Heavy Dump Trucks (HDTs) from the US Army as part of a new five-year contract awarded on 24 June 2025 that up to 450 trucks with value up to USD 221.8 million (EUR 190.6 million).

The HDT order is the first under the new contract and follows the successful completion of Mack Defense’s original seven-year contract awarded in 2018.

Funding for the 86 trucks comes from the US Department of Defense’s 2025 budget in what Mack Defense stated was “a signal of continued federal support for tactical vehicle modernization and US industrial base readiness”.

The trucks will be used across a wide range of operational environments in support of critical infrastructure and construction efforts, including airfields, roadways, landing strips, supply facilities and motor pools.

The M917A3 HDT is based on the Mack Granite commercial platform, enhanced to meet the US Army requirements. Key modifications include all-wheel drive, heavier-duty rear axles, increased ride height and other ruggedised features for tactical use. Each truck is also equipped with modern control systems, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and advanced safety technology, providing operators with improved handling, performance and mission flexibility.

All vehicles are assembled at the Mack Experience Center (MEC) in Allentown, Pennsylvania, where Mack Defense established a dedicated production line in 2021 following a USD 6.5 million investment. The facility has passed stringent government inspections and quality audits and represents a key component of Mack Defense’s support for the US industrial base.

“The M917A3 continues to serve as a core asset for the Army Engineer Regiment, delivering the durability, mobility and engineering capability needed to execute demanding missions across a broad range of environments,” the company stated. “Mack Defense remains committed to delivering high-performance, mission-ready equipment that supports the evolving needs of the U.S. military – today and into the future.”

Production of the HDTs began in March of 2021. The production line helps fulfill the M917A3 contract, while allowing Mack Defense to produce other vehicle variants.

“We are proud to continue supporting the US Army with proven, reliable vehicles tailored to the demands of military operations,” Derik Beck, senior director of sales, business development and marketing at Mack Defense, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “This new order and the new contract overall both reinforce the critical role the M917A3 plays in sustainment missions and reflect the trust the army has placed in our team, our truck and our American manufacturing operations. Leveraging a commercially proven platform like the Mack Granite allows the army to benefit from an established supply chain, proven durability and easier lifecycle support across a wide operational footprint.”