The Cobol Class Research is equipped with a simple Ram Scoop as a part of its hull design. The Ram Scoop will produce 2 KT of Neutronium per light year traveled by the starship. So if the Cobol traveled ten light years it would generate 20 KT of fuel. So in theory, if it used less than 20 KT of fuel to go that 10 light years the starship would experience a net gain in fuel.
The Cobol Class does not scoop fuel when it is being towed.