Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for reconnectably coupling an aft vehicle to a forward vehicle in flight. A docking structure is affixed to the forward vehicle. A coupler has a line connection portion, a probe receiver port, and a plurality of aerodynamic controls. The probe receiving port receives and releasably retains a probe portion of the aft vehicle. A tow line has a proximal end, a distal end, and a line extension length. The proximal end may be attached to the tow actuation element. The distal end is connectable to the coupler. The tow actuation element is configured to adjust the line extension length. The aerodynamic control elements are configured to adjust lateral and vertical positioning of the coupler with respect to the probe portion when the system is in flight. Movement of the coupler is restrained with respect to the docking structure when docked thereto.

Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for reconnectably coupling an aft vehicle to a forward vehicle in flight. A docking structure is affixed to the forward vehicle. A coupler has a line connection portion, a probe receiver port, and a plurality of aerodynamic controls. The probe receiving port receives and releasably retains a probe portion of the aft vehicle. A tow line has a proximal end, a distal end, and a line extension length. The proximal end may be attached to the tow actuation element. The distal end is connectable to the coupler. The tow actuation element is configured to adjust the line extension length. The aerodynamic control elements are configured to adjust lateral and vertical positioning of the coupler with respect to the probe portion when the system is in flight. Movement of the coupler is restrained with respect to the docking structure when docked thereto.