Russian Firm Launches Revolutionary Bio-Drones for Monitoring

A Russian company, Neiry, has unveiled a groundbreaking innovation in drone technology: bio-drones, specifically trained pigeons equipped with brain-implanted neural interfaces. This new development allows operators to remotely influence and direct the birds’ flight for various monitoring tasks, marking a significant leap in the integration of biology and technology.

The bio-drones, referred to as PJN-1, utilize custom-made electrodes implanted in specific areas of the pigeons’ brains. These electrodes connect to a small electronic “backpack” that houses a stimulator and controller. The surgical procedures are performed efficiently using a specialized stereotactic rig, enabling precise electrode placement without requiring expensive imaging techniques like CT or MRI.

The operators can guide the pigeons for predefined flight tasks immediately after surgery. Unlike traditional animal training methods that require extensive time and effort, the bio-drones become operational right away. According to Neiry, the PJN-1 differs from an ordinary pigeon merely by a thin neural-interface wire and an electronics pack on its back. The primary applications of these bio-drones include environmental monitoring, industrial oversight, search-and-rescue missions, and enhanced safety surveillance.

One of the notable advantages of these bio-drones over conventional unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is their endurance. The pigeons can continue living natural lives, with the electronics powered by compact solar panels. The developers assert that the risk of failure aligns with that of any typical pigeon, making the bio-drones suitable for operation in urban environments.

Neiry emphasizes that their project has progressed beyond experimental stages, positioning it for industrial implementation. The cost of a bio-drone reportedly compares favorably to traditional drones in the same category while offering superior autonomy. The company is actively seeking partnerships with drone operators and exploring opportunities to introduce this innovative technology to international markets.

This announcement has reignited discussions among scientists and ethicists regarding the implications of merging biological organisms with robotic technology. The concept of “cyborg” wildlife raises significant questions about ethical considerations and potential applications that extend beyond infrastructure monitoring.

As Neiry advances its bio-drone technology, the future of wildlife and robotics may be on the cusp of substantial transformation, prompting a reevaluation of how society interacts with both nature and technology.