South Korean conglomerate Hanwha Group announced on Nov. 3 the appointment of industry veteran Michael Coulter as the new CEO of Hanwha Defense USA.
Coulter currently serves as chief of Hanwha Global Defense, where he has led Hanwha’s global defense and shipbuilding business initiatives.
Under his leadership, the company established a new international strategy focused on building sovereign capabilities, strengthening partnerships, and expanding regional operations across Europe, Australia, and the Middle East, according to Hanwha.
He also spearheaded the creation of Hanwha Global Defense, which oversees the defense and shipbuilding portfolios of Hanwha Aerospace, Hanwha Systems, and Hanwha Ocean.
In his new role, the company said that Coulter would focus on deepening the company’s presence and partnerships in the United States across both the shipbuilding and defense sectors.
He will remain a board member of Hanwha Aerospace, continuing to contribute to Hanwha’s global transformation into a leading multi-domestic aerospace and defense enterprise.
Mike Smith, the previous head of Hanwha Defense USA, has been appointed Chief Operating Officer and President of Land Systems.
In this role, Smith will ensure operational continuity and leverage his proven record in driving business performance, expanding into adjacent markets, and delivering operational excellence, Hanwha noted.
Coulter brings more than 30 years of experience in national security and defense, including senior leadership positions in the aerospace industry following distinguished service at the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of State, and U.S. Senate.
Hanwha stated that the appointment reflects its long-term commitment to expanding its U.S. footprint and fostering close cooperation with U.S. partners across key defense and shipbuilding domains.
“Hanwha is fully committed to aligning its shipbuilding and defense initiatives with U.S. industrial priorities,” a Hanwha representative said.
“Michael Coulter’s leadership will be instrumental in reinforcing Hanwha’s reputation as a reliable and forward-looking partner in the U.S. market.”
Be the first to comment