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British military forces may soon be equipped with powered paragliders capable of flying up to 200 miles into enemy territory. These lightweight, backpack-sized gliders would enable Royal Marine and Parachute Regiment soldiers to infiltrate hostile zones at night without needing to be deployed from aircraft. The machines are designed for quick assembly and foot-launched deployment, offering new tactical options for covert operations.
Wiltshire-based manufacturer Blakcro, responsible for producing these advanced paragliders, claims that the units can be put together within eight minutes. The Ministry of Defence has allocated £6 million for the development of the system, with testing scheduled to commence “in the coming months.” Defence Minister Luke Pollard emphasized that the government aims to foster a “more resilient, homegrown defence supply chain” and provide troops with cutting-edge equipment that could offer a battlefield advantage.
The paragliders feature titanium frames and are capable of carrying essential gear such as body armor, night vision tools, and weapon mounts. According to Blakcro, the gliders’ low sound profile and reduced radar detectability make them ideal for clandestine entries into hostile areas. Propulsion is provided by a fan, though pilots will be responsible for launching the gliders on foot. This technology is already in use within other NATO countries, marking a growing reliance on innovative aerial mobility solutions.
Founded in 2023 and employing 11 people, Blakcro has garnered government backing for multiple projects, including partnerships with the US Department of Defense. Reflecting a broader shift in defence policy, the government aims to increase investment in UK-manufactured equipment, particularly by involving smaller companies in the supply network. Meanwhile, Chancellor John Healey faces mounting calls to boost defence spending after resigning from Sir Keir Starmer’s administration over investment disagreements. Although no immediate funding announcements are expected in the upcoming October Budget, the government plans to outline a refreshed defence strategy during a broader spending review next spring. A spokesperson affirmed the government’s commitment, stating that both the prime minister and chancellor intend to fully support the defence investment plan and set a roadmap to meet NATO’s 3.5% GDP defence spending target by 2035, with an interim goal of achieving 3% within that timeline
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