The US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is testing an implant which allows an operator to control up to three drones simultaneously with their mind. Even though it is quite a long way off, this technology could one day help create a direct interface between drones and their human operators. The mind control trials were held in Pittsburg, PA between January and June 2017 according to DARPA. With the use of a simulator a volunteer by the name of Nathan Copeland managed to simultaneously fly a lead drone while still maintaining the formation of two other drones. Copeland, who suffers from partial paralysis, never actually controlled a real drone using only his mind. Rather, Copeland channeled all his thoughts through an implant in his skull that uses electroencephalogram (EEG) to interface with a simulation of a UAV navigating an obstacle course while two robotic drones follow around.

According to DARPA spokesman, Tim Killbride, Copeland’s task was to exercise lateral and vertical control to navigate the lead drone through some hoops positioned at the center of the screen, while at the same time correcting and maintaining the lateral course of the other supporting aircraft through other hoops positioned at the top of the screen in shifting locations. DARPA’s amazing tech translated Copeland’s thoughts into code that the drones could understand. In turn, the drone can also scan the area and alert the operator after detecting any obstacles.

However, with modern technology it is only possible for the user to communicate vaguely with a single drone at a time.. The most challenging part is actually interfacing with a human brain which is far from easy, according to neural engineer Bradley Greger. Since implanting any object into a person’s skull is a life threatening procedure, DARPA is working relentlessly on ways to minimize the risk. In 2016, the agency conducted their first successful tests where a tiny sensor that lodges in the brain to record neural activity was implanted into animals. The so called “stenrode” could help scientists solve the researchers’ most difficult problems facing human-drone interfacing.

Another major challenge is the interpretation and management of the large amounts of data collected in the process. In actuality, the system would require large computer banks to manage and process the information. If and when the drone-brain interface reliably works, it could have huge implications for air forces all over the world. Drone crews will no longer be forced to sit in vans and stare at screens using remote controls. They could just think it and the drones would obey their thoughts.

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