OMNI-DIRECTIONAL MOVEMENT OF F-16 AIRCRAFT WITH A MODIFIED AND ADAPTED SLIPBOT MOBILE ROBOT

Slip Robotics proposes to develop and demonstrate an omni-directionalaircraft mover designed specifically for the F-16 Fighting Falcon. This novel system—built upon the unique capabilities of Slip Robotics’ commercially deployed SlipBot platform—will combine a high-capacity, all-directional robotic base with an integrated aircraft lifting cradle capable of raising and maneuvering an F-16 in tight maintenance environments. The proposed mover will lift the aircraft at designated jack points (with landing gear up or down), securely transferring its full weight to the platform, and then transport it laterally, diagonally, or rotationally with zero-point turning and high precision. This technology directly addresses a critical Air Force need: reducing tow lane requirements by up to 50% and enabling precision placement of aircraft for automated corrosion control, painting, and inspection systems. Traditional tows and tugs lack this lateral mobility and rely heavily on operator skill, increasing the risk of aircraft damage and limiting throughput in constrained depots.Slip Robotics’ SlipBot technology—currently deployed in more than 200 units across the United States—is field-proven in moving up to 12,000-pound loads in industrial environments including dock levelers and uneven floors. This system will be adapted and scaled through reinforced structural design and synchronized jacking mechanisms to support the higher dynamic loads of fighter aircraft (targeting ~20,000 lbs). The integrated software will support semi-autonomous navigation, sensor-based safety systems, and a user interface suitable for depot technicians. The system’s core capabilities in precise all-directional motion, safety compliance, and repeatable positioning will be enhanced with aircraft-specific hardware to ensure no undue stress is placed on the airframe in directions it is not structurally designed for.All R&D will be performed at Slip’s engineering and fabrication facilities in Norcross, Georgia using in-house CNC, electronics, and assembly resources. No foreign nationals will participate. The project team—led by Dennis Siedlak (CTO, formerly Waymo)—includes founders and engineers with backgrounds at GE Aviation, Tesla, The Aerospace Corporation, and Volley Automation, where they previously developed autonomous vehicle movers for parking systems. This Direct-to-Phase-II proposal is supported by strong commercial traction, demonstrated technical feasibility from SlipBot deployments, and internal investment in mobility and autonomy platforms. The proposed system addresses DoD objectives for next-generation sustainment infrastructure and has compelling dual-use applications in commercial MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul) facilities and industrial logistics.