The US Air Force has demonstrated a fully electric towing capability in New Mexico to support independent aircraft operations at military bases.
The US Air Force has demonstrated a fully electric towing capability in New Mexico to support independent aircraft operations at military bases.
The test, facilitated at Holloman AFB, involved the TF3 MilSpec emissions-free, remote-controlled towing machine from Pennsylvania-based TowFLEXX Miltech.
It was coupled with a Light and Detection Range (LiDAR) powered anti-collision device produced by Colorado company Evitado Technologies.
TowFLEXX Miltech electric-powered aircraft towing vehicle. Photo: Senior Airman Isaiah Pedrazzini/US Air ForceThe TF3 tugging platform was observed to decrease stress on an aircraft’s wheels and eliminate the need for additional personnel to guide the airframe’s rear.
Simultaneously, Evitado’s anti-collision system assisted the tug vehicle in safely repositioning aircraft at taxiways as it avoided potential bumps against on-field materiel and crews.
Among the craft used for the effort included the MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicle.
The event concluded with the towing equipment displaying its advanced functions for “safer, faster, and more sustainable” aircraft operations.
The demonstration also showcased how the solutions “reduce costs, optimize personnel, and minimize risk” for daily activities at military installations.
Employing 'Greener' Options
The US Air Force noted that the trial at Holloman AFB aligns with the Pentagon’s broader Green Procurement Program, which seeks to adopt sustainable innovations as a “critical component for enhancing mission effectiveness.”
Currently, the Holloman base is among the installations responsible for the US military’s contingency support in both peacetime and conflict.
It is supervised by the 49th Wing, which also provides training for future pilots and sensor operators of the armed forces’ MQ-9 Reaper drones and F-16 Fighting Falcon jets.
