To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to an internet
browser that
supports HTML5
video
Russia is pioneering remote-controlled spy pigeons fitted with brain implants that may ‘fly at will’.
A state-linked Moscow neurotechnology firm has bragged that its operators can steer flocks across the sky, more likely to trigger alarm amongst defence experts and animal-rights groups.
Researchers have launched field tests of so-called ‘bird-biodrones’ referred to as PJN-1— unusual pigeons surgically implanted with neural chips that allow technicians to direct their flight routes.
The birds could be steered remotely in real time, with operators in a position to upload flight commands by stimulating targeted regions of the brain.
The pigeon then ‘believes it desires to fly’ within the instructed direction, claim sources at Neiry, which has deep ties to the Kremlin’s hi-tech innovation machine.
Surgery is carried out during which electrodes are inserted into the brain with millimetre precision.
The birds wear tiny solar-powered backpacks containing onboard electronics, GPS tracking, and the receiver transmits signals into the neural implant.
Chillingly, Neiry insists that ‘no training is required’, declaring that any animal becomes ‘remotely controllable after the operation’ – with pigeons able to covering 310 miles a day, or greater than 1,850 miles in per week.
‘Straight away, the answer works on pigeons, but any bird could be used because the carrier,’ said Alexander Panov, company founder.
‘For transporting heavier payloads, we plan to make use of ravens, for coastal monitoring — seagulls, and for giant marine territories — albatrosses.’
The corporate hasn’t revealed what number of birds died throughout the procedure, but said they’re striving for a ‘100% survival rate’.
The flock-steering technology — which the corporate says could be used for ‘monitoring and guarding sensitive facilities’ — could also be transferred into military or intelligence applications.
Pigeons are already a mainstay of Russian urban life, and their ability to mix into civilian environments could make them ideal for discreet surveillance.
But some fear the spy cameras may be utilized in war zones.
‘The chance of a biodrone falling or crashing is low and equals the natural probability of a bird falling from the sky. Due to this fact, biodrones could be safely utilized in cities,’ they added.
The corporate has already faced criticism for tampering with cow brains in a bid to spice up milk yields.
Get in contact with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.
For more stories like this, check our news page.
MORE: Putin says he has ‘no plans to attack Europe’ on day France declares conscription
MORE: Could Britain revive conscription after France brings back national service?
MORE: Is Russia ‘waging war’ on Europe? Readers discuss