British soldiers could be equipped with rucksack-sized powered paragliders for covert missions in hostile territory, following development by a UK start-up. Backed by around £6 million from the Ministry of Defence (MOD), British start-up Blakcro has developed the UK’s first foot-launched military paraglider systems. A pilot can launch the system by running, powered only by their own legs and the wind, rather than wheels or an engine. The gliders will enable troops to fly covertly into hostile territory without a runway, helicopter or drop aircraft. Development and capability Supported by UK Defence Innovation (UKDI) – the MOD’s ‘front door’ for…
