Mack Defense is partnering with Truck-Lite Co., LLC to provide lighting systems for the M917A3 heavy dump truck (HDT). Truck-Lite is a provider of heavy-duty lighting, telematics, engine protection, safety, and visibility systems.

“To meet the demanding specifications of the U.S. Army, Mack Defense assembled a world class team of suppliers to develop a best-in-class vehicle,” said Jack Terefinko, Mack Defense acquisition program manager. “That includes working with partners like Truck-Lite, which has years of experience in developing military-spec equipment.”

Since 1998, Truck-Lite has produced military-spec lighting that meets or exceeds the military’s strict lighting standards. Mack Defense partnered with Truck-Lite to bring that expertise to the M917A3 HDT program in the form of its blackout drive lights, front and rear composite lights and auxiliary lighting.

“Truck-Lite has supported the U.S. Army for more than 20 years through the development and release of forward and signal lighting that withstands the harsh environments of defense settings,” said Jacques Baudeloque, military sales director for Truck-Lite. “We’re proud to continue our relationships with both Mack Defense and the Army to provide the toughest and best lighting for the M917A3 HDT.”

The U.S. Army awarded Mack Defense a firm-fixed-price $296 million contract in May 2018 to produce up to 683 M917A3 HDTs. Based on the commercially-available Granite dump truck, the Mack Defense M917A3 HDT has been optimized meet the demanding requirements of the U.S. Army with heavier-duty rear axles, all-wheel drive, increased suspension ride height and other rugged features.