Full Breakdown
UK Trials of Powered Paragliders for Elite Troops
8/28/2026, 9:51:18 PM
Core Development: Powered Paragliders for Royal Marines and Parachute Regiment
The Ministry of Defence is preparing to trial backpack-sized powered paragliders that could allow Royal Marine and Parachute Regiment soldiers to glide up to 200 miles behind enemy lines. The titanium-framed devices are fan-powered, yet pilots launch them on foot. According to the manufacturer Blakcro, the gliders can be assembled in eight minutes, carry body armour, night-vision gear and weapon mounts, and are harder to detect by radar or sound than conventional aircraft. The technology is already in use by other NATO member states.
Background & Defence-Spending Context
The MoD has allocated £6 million for the system, and trials are slated to begin in the coming months. Blakcro, a Wiltshire-based firm founded in 2023 with 11 employees, also collaborates with the U.S. Department of Defense and has received government support for two other projects. The initiative aligns with the government’s aim to increase domestic defence procurement and meet NATO’s 3.5 % of GDP defence spending target by 2035. Chancellor John Healey, who resigned from Sir Keir Starmer’s government over investment plans, faces pressure to raise overall defence spending, though a revised plan will not be detailed until the spring spending review.
Official Statements & Responses
Defence Minister Luke Pollard said the government is delivering pioneering equipment that can give troops an edge on the battlefield. A government spokesperson emphasized that “the first duty of government is to keep its citizens safe.” The spokesperson added that the upcoming spending review will set a pathway to meet the NATO commitment of 3.5 % of GDP on defence by 2035 and to reach a 3 % target thereafter.
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Verbatim Quotes
“The first duty of government is to keep its citizens safe.” — government spokesperson
