The United States Air Force has started using disposable gliders called “Grasshopper” to deliver supplies in areas considered dangerous, where there is intense air defense activity.
These gliders were developed by DZYNE Technologies in partnership with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and can carry around 227 kg of payload.
Launched from aircraft such as the C-17 or the C-130, they fly autonomously for several kilometers before landing accurately using parachutes.
The main benefit of the Grasshopper is that it allows safe, low-cost deliveries to locations that are inaccessible to conventional aircraft. Each unit costs about $40,000 and is designed for single-use, making it a viable solution for both military operations and humanitarian aid and response to natural disasters. Initial tests were conducted in 2021, and dozens of these gliders have already been delivered to the U.S. Air Force.
USA adopts disposable gliders for supply missions in high-risk zones (LinkedIn – DZYNE Technologies)
In response to the demand for greater range, a new version called Dragonfly is being developed, with expected entry into service in 2026. At the same time, the Air Force Special Operations Command is also considering integrating small cruise missiles into the MQ-9 Reaper drones as part of its innovations in logistics and aerial weapons.
Source: Militarnyi | Photo: LinkedIn – DZYNE Technologies | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
