Holloman AFB Looks to Revolutionize Aircraft Towing Operations

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Members of Holloman, TowFLEXX Miltech and Evitado conduct an MQ-9 Reaper towing demonstration at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, Feb. 27, 2025. The 49th Maintenance Group is enhancing mission readiness by partnering with Evitado Technologies and TowFLEXX Miltech to develop a cutting-edge anti-collision solution for aircraft towing, integrating sustainable, emissions-free technologies that align with the Department of Defense’s Green Procurement Program and improve operational safety. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Isaiah Pedrazzini)
Members of Holloman, TowFLEXX Miltech and Evitado conduct an MQ-9 Reaper towing demonstration at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, Feb. 27, 2025. The 49th Maintenance Group is enhancing mission readiness by partnering with Evitado Technologies and TowFLEXX Miltech to develop a cutting-edge anticollision solution for aircraft towing, integrating sustainable, emissions-free technologies that align with the Department of Defense’s Green Procurement Program and improve operational safety (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Isaiah Pedrazzini).

March 25, 2025 | Originally published by Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) on March 4, 2025

HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. – The 49th Maintenance Group is advancing its mission readiness through a Phase II Small Business Innovation Research contract collaboration with Evitado Technologies and its anticollision solution and TowFLEXX Miltech, a leading manufacturer of electric, remote-controlled towing vehicles without towbars, with a longstanding history of supporting the military.

This partnership is ushering in a new era of towing with the fully electric, emissions-free aircraft tug. The recent demonstration highlighted its capabilities, including towing the MQ-9 Reaper, performing forward towing instead of push backs to reduce stress on landing gear and eliminate the need for a tail walker, those who need to stand behind the aircraft to ensure nothing strikes the rear.

Additionally, they tested the light and detection range collision avoidance system to allow the tug vehicle to safely maneuver and reposition aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles without colliding with objects, personnel, or other obstacles. These advancements in safety and efficiency contribute not only to Holloman’s day-to-day operations but also to the broader strategic goals of the United States Air Force, ensuring safer, faster, and more sustainable operations.

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