Mack Defense has received $47 million in programmatic funding to continue building the M917A3 Heavy Dump Truck (HDT) at its Allentown, Pennsylvania, facility. This funding is part of the new five-year contract awarded in June 2025 to Mack Defense for up to 450 trucks, with a total contract value of up to $221.8 million.

The appropriation, part of the 2026 Department of Defense Appropriations Act, allows the local production line to maintain operations and meet the U.S. military's heavy logistics needs.

U.S. Rep. Ryan Mackenzie, who represents the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, pressed for the investment throughout the appropriations process. Mack Defense has built more than 625 M917A3 HDTs to date.

“Military readiness depends on reliable logistical support that enables our service members to get the job done. Nobody is better prepared to deliver it than workers right here in the Lehigh Valley,” Mackenzie said. “That’s why I worked to ensure that local employees at Mack Defense can continue to meet the logistical demands of our armed forces with the help of a $47 million appropriation. We’re looking forward to seeing these highly skilled workers continue delivering the top-quality vehicles that help keep our country safe.”

Based on the Mack Granite

The HDT, based on the commercially available Mack Granite, plays a vital role in the construction and upkeep of infrastructure assets, including airfields, roadways, landing strips, supply facilities, and motor pools. They’re 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.

Includes Active Safety Systems

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 have undergone rigorous inspection by government quality auditors to ensure these mission-critical trucks exceed expectations.

“With this funding now in place, our team in Allentown can keep building the M917A3 and supporting the soldiers who rely on it,” said David Hartzell, president of Mack Defense. “Congressman Mackenzie understood what was at stake, for national defense and for the skilled workforce behind this truck, and his advocacy throughout the appropriations process made the difference."

Mack Defense, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mack Trucks, is responsible for the sale of heavy-duty trucks to federal- and ministerial-level customers globally.