New high-tech Japanese drones defend farms from bird flu using lasers

Japanese drones are now taking flight in the battle against bird flu, thanks to a cutting-edge innovation from tech firm NTT e-Drone Technology, the BB102.

As Avian Influenza continues to devastate poultry farms across Japan, these drones might be the breakthrough farmers have been waiting for.

Instead of treating the disease after it strikes, they work to stop it before it starts.

The secret weapon is something that sounds like it comes out of a sci-fi movie: lasers.

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How the drones work

NTT’s new drone, known as the BB102, has a singular mission: keeping flocks of wild birds far away from poultry farms.

Wild birds such as pigeons, crows, and ducks are known carriers of bird flu, and can spread it through droppings or close contact with livestock.

The virus infected millions of chickens across Japan’s Chiba prefecture in early 2025, forcing mass culls and crippling local farmers.

The BB102 drone aims to cut off the virus at its source by scaring away the airborne intruders before they get close.

But the drone’s weapons aren’t what you may expect.

Instead of using missiles or sonic weapons, the BB102 uses light.

Specifically, the drone uses red and green lasers to do its job.

Once airborne, the drone autonomously patrols the perimeter of a farm, scanning for any approaching birds.

When it detects one, it activates a flashing light display that disorients and frightens the animals, encouraging them to steer clear.

Studies have shown that these laser colors are particularly effective in scaring off birds, and even some larger mammals.

These Japanese drones aren’t cheap

The Japanese drones aren’t just about saving chickens, either.

By preventing bird flu outbreaks in livestock, the drones also reduce the risk of transmission to farmers, who are often in close contact with their animals and therefore at higher risk of infection.

Of course, such futuristic technology don’t come cheap.

The pre-tax price listed on the company’s website shows that the BB102 costs about 1.8 million yen ($11,900), and that’s only for the drone itself.

After including the charger, battery, spare parts, as well as regular operating costs, the costs quickly add up.

But Japan’s local governments are stepping in to help, offering subsidies to make the BB102 drones more accessible to farmers.

While most people associate drones with either surveillance or deliveries, this laser-equipped BB102 has a very unique mission: to keep farms safe, and chickens healthy.

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