Russian scientists are developing a chilling new surveillance technology using ordinary pigeons fitted with sophisticated brain implants that allow remote control of their flight patterns.
The breakthrough comes from Moscow-based neurotechnology firm Neiry, which has deep ties to the Kremlin's hi-tech innovation programmes. Researchers have conducted field tests of what they term 'bird-biodrones' - designated PJN-1 - that could revolutionise espionage operations.
How the pigeon control system works
Technicians perform precise surgical procedures where electrodes are implanted into the birds' brains with millimetre accuracy. The pigeons then wear tiny solar-powered backpacks containing electronics, GPS tracking, and receivers that transmit signals directly to the neural implants.
Alexander Panov, company founder, revealed that operators can steer the birds remotely in real time by stimulating specific brain regions. This makes the pigeon 'believe it wants to fly' in the instructed direction, creating a seamless control mechanism that requires no traditional training.
Remarkably, Neiry claims that any animal becomes 'remotely controllable after the operation', with pigeons capable of covering impressive distances. These biodrones can fly approximately 310 miles in a single day, or more than 1,850 miles over a week.
Expanding the surveillance fleet
While current testing focuses on pigeons, the company has ambitious plans to scale up their operations using different bird species for various surveillance scenarios.
'Right now, the solution works on pigeons, but any bird can be used as the carrier,' Panov stated. 'For transporting heavier payloads, we plan to use ravens, for coastal monitoring — seagulls, and for large marine territories — albatrosses.'
The technology's potential applications extend beyond civilian monitoring to military and intelligence operations. The company suggests it could be used for 'monitoring and guarding sensitive facilities', raising concerns among defence experts worldwide.
Ethical concerns and previous controversies
Animal rights groups have expressed alarm at the procedures, particularly concerning the welfare of the birds during and after implantation surgery. Neiry hasn't disclosed how many birds died during development, though they claim to be striving for a '100% survival rate'.
This isn't the first time the company has faced criticism for animal experimentation. Neiry previously attracted controversy for tampering with cow brains in attempts to boost milk production.
The development highlights growing concerns about biological surveillance techniques that could operate undetected in urban environments. Given that pigeons already blend seamlessly into city landscapes across Russia and Europe, they represent ideal platforms for discreet monitoring operations.
As this technology advances, it prompts serious questions about the future of surveillance, animal welfare, and the ethical boundaries of scientific research in the pursuit of national security objectives.
