The Premier Expeditionary Recovery Solution
The Runway Safe MAAS is designed for rapid deployment and total self-sufficiency. As the standard mobile arresting gear for the U.S. Air Force, MAAS supports safe aircraft recovery on permanent runways, forward operating bases (FOBs), and emergency airstrips.
Completely self-contained, each MAAS unit stores all necessary tools, hardware, and power units on-board. Operational readiness is immediate, from arctic cold to desert heat.
Built for Rapid Deployment
Air & Ground Transport
Certified air transport compliant with MIL-A-8421F. A single C-130 can transport a complete hook-cable system, two trailers. MAAS is also compatible with C-17, C-141, and C-5 aircraft. Certified to MIL-M-8090 for road towing at up to 55 MPH (88 KPH). A tandem-axle design with surge-actuated hydraulic brakes ensures stability on rough terrain.
Installation Kits
Each system acts as its own installation baseplate, lowered via an on-board multi-fuel Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU). Concrete installations use hydraulic drills for expansion bolts or turnbuckle assemblies for cast-in nuts. Soil and asphalt installations use the Runway Safe Anchoring System with hydraulic jackhammers and stakes. Rapid Installation Kits allow a 10-minute setup on prepared concrete and under 45 minutes on soil.
Engineering & Performance
MAAS uses the BAK-12 rotary friction energy absorber, delivering the same high-performance standards as fixed-site installations. Runout and braking force are fully field-adjustable to meet specific aircraft envelopes. Standard cycle capacity supports up to 6 arrestments per hour; the rapid cycle package supports up to 20 arrestments per hour for high-tempo operations. A set-back installation option maintains full mobility while allowing offset installation from the runway edge.
Survival & Durability Features
- Corrosion resistance:
multi-stage finish with organic zinc-rich primer and dual polyurethane topcoats - Optional chemical warfare protection:
neoprene-coated nylon covers (MIL-C-20696D) with zippered access, for contaminated environments - Night operations:
integrated trailer work lights for 24/7 installation, plus high-visibility yellow barrier strobes with a 5-mile range to guide incoming pilots - Advanced tires:
12-ply bias standard, with optional urethane-filled (puncture-resistant) or hi-flotation (soft terrain) tires
Technical Specifications
Compatible aircraft:
All hook-equipped aircraft
Max. arrest speed:
190 knots (352 kph)
Hook required:
Yes
Certifications & standards:
MIL-M-8090 (Mobility), MIL-A-8421 (Transportability)
Installation configurations:
Soil, Asphalt, Concrete, Asphalt over Concrete
Operating temperature:
-40°C to +52°C (-40°F to +125°F)
Deployment time:
10 min (prepared concrete), Under 45 min (soil)
Cycle capacity:
Standard 6/hr, Rapid 20/hr
Hook cable:
(12×6)(6×30) steel, non-rotation, polypropylene core, 1.25 in. (32 mm)
Dimensions, towed:
28 ft 3.6 in × 8 ft × 7 ft 9 in
Dimensions, installed:
22 ft 6 in × 8 ft × 6 ft 8 in
About Runway Safe Defense
Runway Safe Defense (RWSD) was established in 2024 as a subsidiary of Runway Safe Inc. (RWS), a global leader in aviation safety and controlled energy absorption with over 30 years of combined expertise. RWSD’s team brings deep, real-world knowledge of controlled energy absorption to every program, with expertise in both fixed and mobile hook cable configurations as well as our proven EMAS technology for overrun protection.