In a striking development, a Russian company specializing in neural technologies called 'Neri' has introduced an unconventional project that seeks to transform pigeons into live drones through neural control. This project, named 'Pigeon-1,' has ignited widespread debate and concern, with some praising its innovation while others express skepticism and ethical worries. The controversy escalated following a chilling statement by a company official about surpassing the age of radar-detectable drones, marking a potential shift in how military operations could be conducted in the future.

The technology involves implanting microelectrodes into the pigeons' skulls, linked to a neural stimulator that enables remote control of the birds' flight path. The company claims that the pigeons possess capabilities that make them superior to conventional drones, including the ability to fly long distances of up to 500 kilometers daily, at a lower cost without the need for maintenance or charging. This promise of efficiency and capability raises significant questions about the future of drone technology and raises alarms regarding ethical considerations in the use of living creatures for military purposes.

Notably, Neri receives direct support from the Artificial Intelligence Research Institute at Moscow University, which develops dual-use technologies for both civilian and military applications. This institute is managed by Katerina Tikhonova, daughter of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The involvement of a high-profile figure in the project adds a layer of political intrigue and highlights the intersection of technology and state interests, further amplifying concerns about the implications of such innovations on international security and ethics in warfare.