Breaking News
M917A3 Heavy Dump Trucks by Mack Defense Set to Enhance US Army Logistics Operations.
On January 23, 2025, Mack Defense announced it had received an order for 103 M917A3 heavy dump trucks from the U.S. Army. This acquisition is part of a firm-fixed-price contract under a seven-year program announced in 2018, which allows for the potential purchase of up to 683 vehicles for a total of $296 million.
The M917A3 is a heavy dump truck (HDT) developed by Mack Defense, a subsidiary of Mack Trucks, to address military tactical and logistical transport needs (Picture source: Mack Defense)
This new order includes 74 vehicles funded through the presidential budget and 29 vehicles allocated to the National Guard. The M917A3 trucks play a key role in military infrastructure construction and maintenance, such as airfields, roadways, logistical facilities, and motor pools. They are specifically designed to meet the demands of challenging operational environments.
The M917A3 is a heavy dump truck (HDT) developed by Mack Defense, a subsidiary of Mack Trucks, to address military tactical and logistical transport needs. Built on the Mack Granite chassis, the vehicle features upgrades such as all-wheel drive, reinforced axles, and enhanced suspension for improved mobility and durability. It has a payload capacity of up to 27 tons and a heated steel dump body with a 13.76m³ capacity. The truck is suitable for use in harsh conditions and can be equipped with an interchangeable armored cab. It is versatile, capable of serving as a troop carrier, radar platform, heavy equipment transporter, or tanker.
Production of the M917A3 began in 2021 at the Mack Experience Center (MEC) in Pennsylvania, following a $6.5 million investment in a dedicated production line. The vehicles incorporate advanced features such as ABS braking systems, touchscreen controls, and protection against chemical agents. Powered by a 440-horsepower Mack MP8 engine paired with an Allison automatic transmission, the trucks are designed for demanding terrains while ensuring operational safety and efficiency.
According to Dave Hartzell, president of Mack Defense, these trucks have demonstrated reliability during global operational deployments. He noted that the U.S. Army, Reserve, and National Guard continue to invest in these modern vehicles to meet operational requirements effectively.
The M917A3 trucks, derived from the commercial Mack Granite model, have been adapted to meet military specifications. Key features include reinforced rear axles, all-wheel drive, increased suspension height, and advanced safety systems. These vehicles also undergo rigorous inspections by government auditors to ensure compliance with military standards.
To date, the U.S. Army has ordered 446 M917A3 trucks, which are manufactured at the MEC facility. The production facility, originally part of Mack’s Customer Adaptation Center, was relocated to the Lehigh Valley Operations in Macungie, Pennsylvania, where all Mack Class 8 vehicles for North America and export markets are assembled.
This order highlights the ongoing collaboration between Mack Defense and the U.S. Army, underscoring the importance of these vehicles in supporting military operations and maintaining critical infrastructure.