Russian firm turns pigeons into brain-controlled surveillance drones using GPS

A Moscow startup says pigeons with microscopic brain electrodes completed controlled test flights over the city in late 2025.

The PJN-1 project uses neurosurgery instead of training. Electrodes linked to a small head stimulator let operators steer the birds, while a lightweight backpack carries GPS, a controller, solar panels, and a chest camera for real-time tracking. The company claims the pigeons can fly up to 300 miles a day without batteries and be deployed immediately after surgery.

Neiry says the birds can navigate tight spaces, handle harsh weather, and operate where drones face restrictions, for uses like infrastructure inspections, power line monitoring, and search-and-rescue.

Founder Alexander Panov said: “Any bird can be a carrier… ravens for heavier payloads, seagulls, and for large sea areas — albatrosses.”

The project is already raising ethical and security debates.

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