US Air Force Tests Powered Gliders in Iceland

The United States Air Force Special Operations Command is testing powered gliders to deliver medical gear and supplies to small teams in remote or contested environments. During Exercise Northern Viking 2026 in Iceland, personnel are evaluating long-range resupply capabilities for areas where conventional aircraft or ships cannot operate due to distance or enemy threats.

This initiative aligns with a strategic focus on the Arctic, known as the High North, where melting ice has increased competition between the United States, NATO allies, Russia, and China. The 352d Special Operations Wing is conducting the airdrop tests to practice operations alongside partners in the region.

While the specific glider model used in Iceland was not disclosed, the U.S. Army previously experimented with Dzyne Grasshopper glider drones in Romania and Macedonia. Those earlier tests focused on delivering food and construction materials while minimizing electronic emissions to avoid detection.