Hanwha Defense USA has appointed Michael Coulter, an aerospace industry veteran, as president and CEO, and Mike Smith, most recently the company’s chief executive, as chief operating officer.
Strengthening Hanwha’s US Presence
HDUSA said Monday Coulter will lead Hanwha’s efforts to strengthen partnerships, lead business initiatives and drive growth across the U.S. shipbuilding and defense sectors.
He will continue to serve on Hanwha Aerospace’s board to support the company’s global strategy and work with Korean and international leadership to drive business transformation efforts.
HDUSA is the U.S. defense subsidiary of South Korea-based Hanwha Aerospace. Established in 2017, the Washington, D.C.-based company focuses on delivering advanced defense and shipbuilding platforms to the U.S. armed forces and its industry partners.
Who Is Michael Coulter?
Coulter most recently served as president and CEO of Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Global Defense, where he developed a global strategy focused on establishing sovereign capabilities and strengthening international partnerships, while expanding its regional presence through leadership appointments in the Middle East, Europe and Australia.
The U.S. Navy Reserve officer has over three decades of experience in national security and defense and has held senior leadership roles in the aerospace industry. He also held leadership positions at the Department of Defense, State Department and the U.S. Senate.
Coulter holds an MBA from Georgetown University and a master’s in national security and strategic studies from the U.S. Naval War College.
Who Is Mike Smith?
In addition to his role as COO of HDUSA, Smith will also serve as president of the company’s land systems business. In this position, he will lead efforts to expand into adjacent markets and enhance business performance.
Smith most recently served as president and CEO of HDUSA.
The U.S. Navy veteran has over two decades of leadership experience in the defense and aerospace industry. He has served on joint ventures and boards across multiple sectors.
