Accelerate Defense Modernization through Strategic Sourcing
Discover cutting-edge solutions from leading global suppliers
British soldiers could soon execute covert airborne missions using rucksack-sized powered paragliders developed by Wiltshire-based start-up Blakcro.
Backed by approximately £6 million from the Ministry of Defence (MOD), Blakcro has engineered the UK’s first foot-launched military paraglider systems. A pilot launches the system by running, powered solely by their own legs and the glider’s engine, eliminating the requirement for runways, helicopters, or drop aircraft.
The technology folds into a case roughly the size of a large rucksack and can be assembled in complete darkness in under eight minutes. Built around a UK-made titanium airframe, the glider can travel up to 200 miles under its own power while accommodating night vision equipment, body armour, and weapon mounts. Its low acoustic, visual, and radar signature is designed to facilitate stealth insertions into hostile territory.
The system is already in operational use, with three prime contracts held across the UK and NATO allies. The Parachute Regiment and Royal Marines are preparing to trial this individual approach to air mobility in the coming months.
Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP, said, “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.
“Defence has a new way of working with industry, backing British innovation to deliver cutting-edge capability for our armed forces and good jobs in regions like Wiltshire.”
Blakcro originally engaged with UK Defence Innovation (UKDI)—part of the MOD’s National Armaments Director Group—through its Open Call for Innovation. The company has since received support across two additional projects, including a Defence Innovation Loan that enabled it to scale from a single product to full production. Through this support, Blakcro has expanded its workforce from 3 to 11 employees, reflecting UKDI’s broader objective to strengthen the domestic defence supply chain.
Sam Wedgwood, Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Blakcro, said, “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. We could not have done that at this pace without the support we have received – not just the funding, but the commercialisation support and the access to the right people. UKDI kept telling us we were special. I think it’s mutual.”
The initiative highlights the model of backing agile, homegrown innovators to supply advanced capabilities to the armed forces while strengthening the UK defence industrial base.
