WILTSHIRE
September 2, 2026 · 13:08 UTC
Taking flight: UKDI funds military-grade powered paraglider
Overview
Wiltshire-based start-up, Blakcro, used UKDI funding to develop defence grade powered paraglider systems — giving troops a discreet, agile and independent air mobility capability
Short history
UKDI began in 2021 as a Ministry of Defence unit that awards contracts to British companies for new defence equipment. In 2024 it started funding small firms in Wiltshire and elsewhere to build low-cost, quiet aerial systems for troops. On 2 September 2026 Blakcro, a Wiltshire start-up, received UKDI money to finish military-grade powered paragliders that let soldiers move independently over short distances without runways or large aircraft. The contract is the latest in a series of UKDI awards that shifted from large prime contractors toward faster development by smaller British firms.
Predictive model
Blakcro, a Wiltshire start-up, just got UKDI money to build military-grade powered paragliders for troops. These rigs give soldiers quiet, independent flight without runways or big support teams. The project sits on the ladder of UK defence pushing smaller, cheaper kit that troops can carry and use right away.
Next steps look like flight tests, then trials with British forces. If the gear clears safety and operational checks, it moves into low-rate production for special units. The story keeps going as long as UKDI keeps funding small firms and the Army wants stealthy, low-signature air options.
It changes only if trials show the paragliders cannot meet stealth, range or durability specs, or if budgets shift away from this type of kit.
Horizon: through 2027 at current pace.
Primary sources