UK MoD to trial powered paragliders for covert troop insertion

The UK Ministry of Defence is set to trial a new powered paraglider system, manufactured by Wiltshire-based Blakcro, that enables Royal Marine and Parachute Regiment troops to fly up to 200 miles behind enemy lines without needing to drop from aircraft. The backpack-sized gliders can be assembled in eight minutes and launched on foot, and can carry body armour, night vision equipment, and weapon mounts. The MoD is spending £6m on the system, with trials beginning in the coming months. Defence Minister Luke Pollard said the government is building a more resilient, homegrown defence supply chain. The technology is already used by other NATO member countries. The announcement comes amid pressure on Chancellor John Healey to increase defence spending, with a revised defence plan expected in a spring spending review.