Green Berets have been testing glider drones that can slip undetected past enemy electronic sensors

Published: Friday, May 22, 2026 at 9:58 am

US Special Forces Explore Silent Drone Technology for Resupply and Stealth

The US military is actively seeking ways to resupply and communicate with troops in combat zones without revealing their positions to enemy electronic sensors. A promising solution being explored is the use of glider drones, which offer a silent and potentially undetectable method of delivering essential supplies.

During the recent Trojan Footprint special operations exercise, US Green Berets received support from Grasshopper glider drones. These drones, released from Romanian aircraft, delivered construction materials, food, and medical supplies. The drones are designed to land within a tight 10-meter radius of their target, deploying a parachute just before impact.

The Grasshopper, manufactured by Dzyne, is engineered to minimize electronic emissions, a critical concern for the US military. Traditional communication systems and electronic devices emit signals that can be detected by enemy sensors, potentially exposing troops to danger. The glider drones are designed to operate below detection thresholds in the electromagnetic spectrum, offering a stealthier alternative.

These drones can carry up to 500 pounds of cargo and can be released from altitudes as high as 25,000 feet, allowing them to travel significant distances. The military official compared the platform to a paper airplane, highlighting its reliance on gravity and aerodynamics for flight.

The development of these glider drones reflects a broader shift in the US military's approach to modern warfare. There is a growing emphasis on reducing reliance on digital systems and minimizing electronic signatures. This includes efforts to shrink command posts, limit radio chatter, and eliminate cell phone use in the field. The military is also exploring ways to reduce thermal emissions.

The use of glider drones echoes the historical use of glider aircraft during World War II, which were used for silent troop insertion and cargo delivery. The current focus on digital stealth is driven by the need for troops and equipment to survive in a "hyper-contested digital environment."

While the technology shows promise, questions remain about its performance at scale and in challenging weather conditions. The US military is undergoing a significant shift, moving away from its heavy reliance on digital systems developed during the Global War on Terror.

BNN's Perspective: The development of silent resupply methods like glider drones is a prudent step for the US military. While the technology is promising, it is important to balance the need for stealth with the practical realities of combat operations. The shift away from over-reliance on digital systems is a welcome development, as it promotes adaptability and resilience in an increasingly complex battlefield environment.

Keywords: glider drones, US military, resupply, stealth, electronic emissions, Green Berets, Dzyne, Grasshopper, Trojan Footprint, special operations, digital stealth, contested environments, electromagnetic spectrum, silent resupply, combat zones

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