Mack Defense has produced its 500th M917A3 Heavy Dump Truck (HDT) in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Production started in the first quarter of 2021.

The HDT, based on the commercially available Mack Granite, is part of the previously announced firm-fixed-price $296 million contract over seven years that the U.S. Army awarded Mack Defense in 2018. This contract allows for up to 683 trucks. 

In the summer of 2024, the U.S. military ordered 74 HDTs from the presidential budget, 29 of which were purchased by the U.S. National Guard. Thus far, the military has ordered 549 HDTs from Mack Defense.

“We’re excited that we’ve produced 500 of the Mack HDTs to date fulfilling the various operational needs of our military,” said David Hartzell, president of Mack Defense. “These vehicles play a vital role in supporting our country in various ways, and we’re proud to be the supplier that manufactures them. Thank you to our Mack Defense employees, who made this possible.”

The HDTs play a vital role in the construction and upkeep of infrastructure assets, including airfields, roadways, landing strips, supply facilities, and motor pools.

Built Tough for the U.S. Military

The HDTs are spec’d with heavier-duty rear axles, all-wheel drive, increased suspension ride height, and other ruggedized features to meet the unique requirements of the U.S. military.

The HDT model also features advanced technology, including ABS, modern control interfaces for user-friendly operation, and active safety systems. These modern technologies, coupled with improved sustainability, were key factors in the Army’s investment in the new HDTs. Both the HDTs and the production line at the Mack Experience Center (MEC) have undergone a rigorous inspection by government quality auditors to ensure these mission-critical trucks exceed expectations. 

Production Started in 2021

Production of the HDTs began in the first quarter 2021, following an investment of $6.5 million to create a dedicated HDT production line at the facility. The production line helps fulfill the M917A3 contract, while allowing Mack Defense to produce other vehicle variants.