a fuzzy logic controller for controlling towed objects includes comprises a winch controller to control extension or retraction of a tow cable based on a control signal . a fuzzy logic controller controls a speed at which the tow cable is extended or retracted . the fuzzy logic controller includes an altitude controller storing a membership function defining ranges for a delta altitude variable and determines an altitude control signal based on the range for the measured delta altitude variable . a gain controller stores respective membership functions defining ranges for speed , heading rate , and cable length variables and determines a gain control signal based on the ranges for the determined speed , heading rate , and cable length variables . a command controller determines the control signal based on the gain control signal and the altitude control signal .