The British military is poised to trial a new generation of paragliders designed for covert, long-range insertions into enemy territory. Developed by Wiltshire-based startup Blackro with approximately £6 million in funding from the UK's Ministry of Defence (MOD), the rucksack-sized gliders are a British innovation aimed at enhancing the capabilities of forces like the Royal Marines and the Parachute Regiment.
This foot-launched system allows a pilot to initiate flight by running, utilizing only their legs and wind power. The glider folds into a backpack-sized case and can be assembled in under eight minutes, even in complete darkness. Its design prioritizes stealth, featuring low acoustic, visual, and radar signatures to facilitate covert operations.
Constructed with a UK-made titanium airframe, the glider is capable of traveling up to 200 miles under its own power. It is designed to accommodate essential military gear, including body armor, night vision equipment, and weapon mounts. The technology is already in operational use, with contracts in place across the UK and with other NATO countries.
Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP, highlighted the MOD's role in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises like Blackro. "With UK Defence Innovation supporting SMEs like Blakcro from the drawing board through to deployment, we are building a more resilient, homegrown defence supply chain and ensuring our armed forces receive the pioneering equipment that can give them the edge on the battlefield," Pollard stated.
The development and deployment of Blackro's gliders align with broader government strategies to bolster the UK's sovereign defense supply chain. Since receiving support from UK Defence Innovation (UKDI), Blackro has expanded from three to 11 employees and secured three prime contracts with the UK and other NATO nations.
Sam Wedgwood, Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Blackro, noted the rapid progression of the technology. "From a UKDI success story perspective, we have very rapidly moved from base technology in 2024, through UKDI-supported rapid innovation, through to purchase, through to operational use by 2026," Wedgwood said. He credited UKDI not only for funding but also for commercialization support and access to key contacts.
The MOD views the partnership with Blackro as a prime example of the government's commitment to backing agile, homegrown innovators to deliver advanced military capabilities and foster sustainable growth within the UK defense industrial base, ensuring service members remain equipped to counter emerging threats.