Blakcro

About Blakcro

Blakcro is a UK-based defence technology company specializing in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of military-grade powered paraglider (PPG) systems. Founded in 2023 by Sam Wedgwood, who serves as CEO, the Wiltshire-based startup has rapidly progressed from concept to operational deployment by 2026. This accelerated development was significantly supported by approximately £6 million from the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) and backing from UK Defence Innovation (UKDI), the MOD's gateway for new industry partners. The company's business model is centered on securing direct government contracts for the supply and long-term support of its systems. Blakcro currently holds three prime contracts with the UK and other NATO allies, with systems being supplied through 2027. This strategic positioning has enabled the company to grow from 3 to 11 employees, underpinning a resilient, sovereign defence supply chain in the UK. Blakcro’s core offering provides an organic air-mobility capability for elite and special forces, designed to operate independently of complex air assets. The product line includes foot-launched single-operator units, multi-role dual-operator trikes, and autonomous cargo/ISR platforms. A key differentiator is that its systems are designed from the ground up exclusively for military use, not adapted from sports equipment. The PPGs feature a UK-made titanium airframe and are engineered for rapid deployment, capable of being assembled in under eight minutes in complete darkness. They offer a low-signature (acoustic, visual, and radar) option for discreet infiltration and exfiltration, with a range of up to 200 miles. These systems are mission-ready and built to accommodate military equipment like body armour, weapon mounts, and night-vision gear.