TUG TMD

The TUG TMD is Textron's towed pneumatic air start unit, providing the compressed air supply required to spin up turbine engines on commercial aircraft during ground-start operations. It is available in four output ratings — 150, 180, 250, and 270 lb/min — allowing procurement to match the unit's output to the engine types in the operator's fleet, since different turbofan models have different minimum-mass-flow requirements for reliable windmill starts.

All TMD variants are powered by Cummins engines in Tier III, IV, or IVF diesel/ULSD configuration, providing a well-supported powerplant with global parts and service availability. The unit mounts as a four-wheel towed trailer, though truck-mount and skid-mount configurations are also available for fixed ramp positions or alternative vehicle integration. The automatic compressor cool-down system protects the compressor between cycles, extending service intervals in high-utilisation environments where the unit runs multiple aircraft per hour.

The LCD colour display communicates real-time operational status including pressure levels and maintenance alerts, reducing crew reliance on analogue gauges and enabling quicker fault identification. On-demand automatic engine throttle management optimises fuel consumption relative to demand. For Gulf operators — where engine starts in high ambient temperatures place additional thermal load on the compressor — the TMD's Cummins powerplant and automatic cooling cycle are directly relevant to availability and service-life planning. Tow speed is rated at up to 15 mph (24.1 km/h).