A significant crypto-billionaire donor to Nigel Farage’s Reform party has made a substantial investment in Gravity Industries, a British company developing advanced jet-pack suits for military applications. The move by Christopher Harborne, who has previously gifted millions to Reform and Farage, links the controversial world of political donations with cutting-edge aerospace technology.
Key Takeaways
- Christopher Harborne, a major donor to Nigel Farage’s Reform party, has acquired a stake exceeding 25% in Gravity Industries.
- Gravity Industries specialises in developing "Iron Man"-style jet-pack suits for military and civilian use.
- The investment highlights the intersection of political funding, cryptocurrency wealth, and advanced defence technology.
The Jet-Pack Venture
Gravity Industries, founded by former Royal Marines reservist Richard Browning, is at the forefront of personal flight technology. The company’s signature jet-pack features a backpack-mounted power unit and multiple gas turbines, enabling wearers to achieve short-distance flight. Gravity Industries holds the world record for the fastest jet-suit flight and has been valued at $82 million following a recent funding round.
The company’s marketing materials showcase potential military applications, including rapid deployment onto ships or gaining tactical advantages in combat scenarios. Beyond defence, Gravity Industries also offers flight experiences and has conducted numerous flights globally. The firm is based in Frome, Somerset, and has training facilities in both the UK and California.
Harborne’s Political and Business Ties
Christopher Harborne, who resides in Thailand, has been a prominent financial supporter of Nigel Farage and the Reform party, contributing over £12 million. A £5 million gift to Farage personally is currently under parliamentary scrutiny, with Farage stating it was a ‘reward for Brexit’ and intended for personal security costs.
Filings at Companies House indicate Harborne controls between 25% and 50% of Gravity Industries, with other investors including American tech billionaire Tim Draper. Harborne’s investment vehicle, Spacetime Transformations, has also backed other ventures, including a satellite company. His wider business interests reportedly include a significant stake in the cryptocurrency firm Tether and ownership of the defence contractor QinetiQ, as well as a private jet business.
Sources
- Nigel Farage’s crypto donor invests in British jet-pack business, The Telegraph.
