UK soldiers get paragliders for covert ops

The UK Ministry of Defence is set to trial a new paraglider system for airborne troops, allowing them to fly up to 200 miles behind enemy lines without aircraft.

Manufacturers Blakcro claim the machines can be assembled in eight minutes and launched on foot, with pilots expected to launch them by foot.

The technology is currently being used by other NATO member countries and has been funded by £6m from the Ministry of Defence.

Defence Minister Luke Pollard said the government aims to build a The Ministry of Defence is set to start trials of a new paraglider system for airborne troops in the coming months.

Defence Minister Luke Pollard said the government aims to build a 'more resilient, homegrown defence supply chain' and ensure their armed forces receive pioneering equipment that can give them an edge on the battlefield.

The paragliders have a range of up to 200 miles and can carry body armour, night vision equipment, and weapon mounts. They are more difficult to detect by radar or sound than traditional aircraft.

The government wants to spend more on UK-made defence equipment and bring smaller companies into the supply chain.

Chancellor John Healey is under pressure to increase defence spending after he resigned from Sir Keir Starmer's government in protest at its investment plans.

The first duty of government is to keep its citizens safe. The prime minister and chancellor are committed to fully funding the defence investment plan.