Germany has announced the development of what are known as "cyber spy beetles" for NATO, which can be used to carry out reconnaissance missions.
Biotactics has unveiled hybrid biological reconnaissance beetles designed for the armed forces of NATO countries. The concept involves equipping the insects with miniature devices, including cameras, sensors, communication systems, and neural stimulation, allowing for remote control of their movements and use in intelligence missions.
This technology falls under the category of biohybrid systems, where living organisms, such as insects, are used as mobile platforms equipped with miniature electronic "backpacks." Using electrical pulses, the insect can be guided and its movement precisely controlled.
This development aims to carry out reconnaissance missions in environments known as the "last 50 meters," such as enclosed spaces, densely populated urban areas, tunnels, and underground facilities, where traditional drones face limitations related to noise, air currents, or limited reliance on satellite navigation systems.
The developers explained that this approach relies on exploiting the natural abilities of insects to move, adapt and overcome obstacles, while the role of engineers focuses on developing precise control interfaces and minimizing the size of the electronic payload.
The company points out that one of the key advantages of this technology is its ability to scale up through insect reproduction rather than traditional industrial production, which could transform the economics of using surveillance methods in urban operations. However, it also emphasizes that using biological components presents challenges related to biosecurity and controlling the characteristics of living platforms.
Russian military expert Yuri Knutov commented that similar technologies have been proposed for some time, using insects or even other animals as carriers of equipment, but they are still in the experimental stage.
The main challenges remain the size of the electronic components and power sources, which currently limit effective field use. Experts believe that a real breakthrough in this area may be possible in the coming years, with advancements in microelectronics and miniaturized power systems.
Experts also point out that these technologies may be used in the future for civilian purposes as well, such as searching for survivors in disasters or monitoring rugged areas, thus expanding the range of their potential applications.
