Hanwha Defense USA Welcomes Michael Coulter as Its New Leader
The South Korean conglomerate, Hanwha Group, declared on Nov. 3 the selection of industry expert Michael Coulter as the new Chief Executive Officer of Hanwha Defense USA.
Coulter presently holds the position of leader at Hanwha Global Defense, where he has guided Hanwha’s international defense and shipbuilding business ventures.
Thanks to his direction, the firm formulated a novel global strategy aimed at fostering sovereign capabilities, enhancing alliances, and broadening regional activities throughout Europe, Australia, and the Middle East, according to Hanwha.
He also initiated the establishment of Hanwha Global Defense, which manages the defense and shipbuilding divisions of Hanwha Aerospace, Hanwha Systems, and Hanwha Ocean.
In his upcoming role, the company stated that Coulter would emphasize bolstering the firm’s presence and collaborations in the United States within both the shipbuilding and defense industries.
He will remain a board member of Hanwha Aerospace, continuing to play a significant role in Hanwha’s global evolution into a leading multi-national aerospace and defense organization.
Mike Smith, the former leader of Hanwha Defense USA, has been appointed as Chief Operating Officer and President of Land Systems.
In this capacity, Smith will guarantee operational continuity and utilize his established record in enhancing business performance, venturing into adjacent markets, and achieving operational excellence, as noted by Hanwha.
Coulter joins the organization with over 30 years of expertise in national security and defense, encompassing senior leadership roles in the aerospace sector following notable service in the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of State, and U.S. Senate.
Hanwha emphasized that this appointment underscores its long-term dedication to expanding its U.S. presence and nurturing close collaborations with American partners in crucial defense and shipbuilding sectors.
“Hanwha is wholeheartedly dedicated to aligning its shipbuilding and defense strategies with U.S. industrial priorities,” a Hanwha spokesperson remarked.
“Michael Coulter’s guidance will be pivotal in reinforcing Hanwha’s standing as a trustworthy and forward-thinking collaborator in the U.S. marketplace.”
