British troops could soon be equipped with rucksack-sized powered paragliders for covert missions, following a new invention by UK start-up Blakcro. The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has backed the Wiltshire-based company with around £6 million to develop the UK’s first foot-launched military paraglider systems.
These gliders allow a pilot to launch by running, using only their legs and the wind, removing the need for a runway, helicopter, or drop aircraft. They can be assembled in under eight minutes in complete darkness and are designed with a low acoustic, visual, and radar signature for stealth insertions into hostile territory.
Built with a UK-made titanium airframe, the gliders can travel up to 200 miles under their own power and accommodate body armour, night vision equipment, and weapon mounts. The technology is already in operational use, with contracts held across the UK and with NATO allies. The Royal Marines and Parachute Regiment are expected to trial this individual air mobility approach in the coming months.
Luke Pollard MP, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, stated that MOD support for SMEs like Blakcro helps build a more resilient, homegrown defence supply chain. Blakcro has grown from 3 to 11 employees and now holds three prime contracts with the UK and NATO allies since receiving support from UK Defence Innovation (UKDI).