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. (U.S. Navy photo)
Marines fast-track new tug for MQ-9 Reaper
The Navy and Marine Corps Multi-Mission Tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems program office (PMA-266) recently delivered a cutting-edge aircraft towing solution to a Marine Corps squadron at Cherry Point, addressing urgent operational needs in record time.
Partnering with SupplyCore, the team delivered the TowFLEXX TF-3 Milspec, a remote-controlled aircraft tug, that 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.
"What typically would have taken years in development was accomplished in less than four months," said Capt. Dennis Monagle, PMA-266 program manager. "This demonstrates our team's ability to rapidly respond to urgent fleet requirements."
PMA-266 collaborated with the Defense Logistics Agency's Special Operational Equipment Tailored Logistic Support Program to rapidly deliver the system. This collaboration allowed the team to bypass traditional acquisition timelines while upholding rigorous safety standards.
"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, operating under the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, will be the first to fully integrate the system into their daily MQ-9A Reaper operations. Kennedy said this technology is particularly valuable for unmanned air system operations, where hangar and flight line space is often limited.
As the Marine Corps continues expanding its MQ-9 unmanned aircraft community, solutions like the TowFLEXX TF-3 represent the kind of practical innovation needed to support growing aviation requirements.
The successful deployment underscores PMA-266's commitment to enhancing combat readiness through fleet-focused, automated solutions. PMA-266 manages the acquisition lifecycle of the Marine Corps’ MQ-9A Reaper, a system providing warfighters with reconnaissance, surveillance, target acquisition, and advanced multi-mission capabilities.