U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps deliver rapid aircraft towing innovation to support MQ-9A operations

By Defence Industry Europe

The Navy and Marine Corps Multi-Mission Tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems programme office (PMA-266) has swiftly delivered a next-generation aircraft towing system to Marine Aviation Group 14 at Cherry Point. The new system, the TowFLEXX TF-3 Milspec, is a remote-controlled tug designed to manoeuvre aircraft with enhanced precision in restricted environments.
Marines test the TowFLEXX TF-3 Milspec, a new aircraft tug capability, with the MQ-9A Reaper at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point in March 2025. The TowFLEXX allows a single operator to maneuver military aircraft with unprecedented precision, maintaining the aircraft's nose wheel alignment while enabling 360-degree turns in confined spaces. Photo: U.S. Navy.

The Navy and Marine Corps Multi-Mission Tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems programme office (PMA-266) has swiftly delivered a next-generation aircraft towing system to Marine Aviation Group 14 at Cherry Point. The new system, the TowFLEXX TF-3 Milspec, is a remote-controlled tug designed to manoeuvre aircraft with enhanced precision in restricted environments.

 

The TowFLEXX allows a single operator to reposition military aircraft while maintaining accurate nose wheel alignment and enabling 360-degree turns. This feature is especially beneficial in hangars and on crowded flight lines, where space is at a premium.

“What typically would have taken years in development was accomplished in less than four months,” said Capt. Dennis Monagle, PMA-266 programme manager. “This demonstrates our team’s ability to rapidly respond to urgent fleet requirements.”

 

 

The system was delivered in partnership with SupplyCore and through collaboration with the Defense Logistics Agency’s Special Operational Equipment Tailored Logistic Support Programme. This joint effort enabled fast-track acquisition while maintaining compliance with safety protocols.

“The TowFLEXX technology underwent comprehensive validation to ensure compliance with Naval Aviation Enterprise safety requirements,” said Maj. Jeff Kennedy, PMA-266 warfighter readiness deputy. “What makes this system special is its adaptability across multiple aircraft platforms while remaining expeditionary in nature.”

 

 

Marine Aviation Group 14, part of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, will be the first to integrate the TowFLEXX system into their regular MQ-9A Reaper operations. The MQ-9A provides the Marine Corps with advanced reconnaissance, surveillance, and multi-mission capabilities.

As the unmanned aircraft fleet grows, efficient support solutions such as the TowFLEXX TF-3 will play a key role in maintaining operational flexibility. This deployment reflects PMA-266’s continued commitment to fleet-focused innovation and enhancing combat readiness through automation

 

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