Mechanized Material Handling Equip

The Mechanized Material Handling Equipment (MMHE) Program is an Air Force initiative funded under budget line item 843050, designed to modernize and automate logistics and sustainment operations across Air Force installations. The program's primary goal is to provide efficient, reliable, and safe storage, handling, and distribution of materiel, supporting readiness and operational continuity for both active and reserve components.

MMHE investments directly enhance supply chain management, aircraft maintenance, air transportation logistics, and warehouse operations by deploying advanced mechanized and non-mechanized equipment tailored to specific base and mission requirements.

Within the MMHE program, a significant objective is the procurement of Material Storage and Distribution Systems. These systems include racks, shelving, modular cabinets, mezzanines, mobile aisle systems, conveyors, vertical lift modules, vertical carousels, narrow-aisle warehouse trucks, and overhead cranes. For FY 2026, the Air Force plans to acquire 17 such systems, each uniquely designed for the receiving base's mission and facility constraints. The intent is to reduce pipeline time, minimize damage to weapon system components, and improve personnel safety.

These upgrades are essential for the rapid processing of personnel, freight, and baggage, and for the secure storage of weapon system components and mobility gear.

The MMHE line also funds Aerial Port Equipment, which is vital for air transportation and rapid deployment capabilities. This category includes heavy-duty freight handling systems such as 463L pallet conveyors, pallet buildup/breakdown lift stations, cargo storage racks, and overhead bridge cranes for air freight terminals. For FY 2026, two aerial port equipment systems are scheduled for procurement. These investments support the Air Force's ability to sustain global operations, respond to crises, and maintain efficient air mobility, including support for the KC-46A program at various Main Operating Bases.

Another objective of the MMHE program is the acquisition of External Aircraft Fuel Tank Storage Systems. These systems are necessary for the safe and efficient storage and handling of external aircraft fuel tanks, which are critical components for various weapon systems. Properly equipped facilities help reduce losses due to damage during handling and storage, and ensure rapid access to mission-essential equipment. This capability supports both homeland defense missions and domestic emergency responses, as mandated by Section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act.

Procurement under MMHE is decentralized, with each system custom-designed and contracted to meet the unique needs of individual Air Force bases. The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Wright-Patterson AFB oversees most contracting efforts, ensuring that specifications are developed following site visits and in consultation with base personnel. The program leverages commercial-off-the-shelf solutions and typically awards contracts to multiple vendors, allowing flexibility in delivery schedules and production rates.

Support costs for the MMHE program include both government and contractor services, covering program management, design, installation, and integration of equipment at receiving bases. These support activities ensure that new systems are fully operational and meet Air Force standards for safety, efficiency, and mission readiness. Funding is distributed among the Air Force, Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserve components.