Recent drone sightings in New Jersey and other states

Recent reports of drones flying in New Jersey, Maryland, Massachusetts, and other nearby states have raised concerns. However, officials from the White House, FBI, and the Department of Homeland Security are working together to clarify the situation. They say that most of the reports were actually of manned aircraft, not drones.

During an impromptu press briefing, an FBI official explained that the agency is working closely with 50 local, state, and federal partners to investigate the increase in drone sightings. The official pointed out that while more than 5,000 drone sightings were reported, fewer than 100 of these have required further investigation. Most of the larger fixed-wing aircraft reported as drones have been confirmed to be manned planes, not unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

The official further explained that there has been no evidence supporting claims of large-scale drone activities. Many of the reported sightings occurred along regular flight paths, which may have caused confusion. Despite these findings, investigations continue, and officials are analyzing radar data, conducting interviews, and gathering intelligence to understand where these drone-like sightings originated.

The official also noted that while these drone sightings shouldn’t be ignored, there may have been an overreaction to the situation. Authorities are doing their best to find the source of these activities, but no serious national security threat has been discovered.

Concerns Rise Over Specific Drone Sightings

The concerns about drone activity have even affected special events. For example, a “No Drone Zone” was created around the Army-Navy football game held in Maryland on Saturday. This no-fly zone extended 3.2 kilometers around the stadium to ensure safety. The event was attended by President-elect Donald Trump and JD Vance. The restriction was put in place to prevent any potential drone interference during such a high-profile event.

The drone sightings, which began in New Jersey in mid-November, have spread to other states, including Maryland and Massachusetts. In Massachusetts, residents reported seeing 10-15 drones flying over Cape Cod one Friday night. Governor Maura Healey of Massachusetts acknowledged the growing number of drone sightings in the state and said they are keeping a close watch on the situation.

Similarly, in New York, Governor Kathy Hochul raised concerns after drone activity caused a temporary shutdown of runways at a local airport in the Hudson Valley. Governor Hochul expressed that the situation had gone too far and called on the Biden administration to increase federal law enforcement efforts to address the growing issue. She also urged Congress to pass legislation that would regulate drone usage more strictly.

Drone Bans in Military and Other Restricted Areas

Drone activity over military installations is particularly concerning. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has imposed temporary restrictions on drone operations over certain military sites. One such restriction was placed over Picatinny Arsenal, a military base in New Jersey. This ban is set to expire on December 26 but may be extended or made permanent, depending on the findings of ongoing investigations. Another restriction was placed over Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey, which will expire on December 20.

Even these drone sightings near military bases, there is no evidence suggesting any malicious intent or foreign involvement. A military official confirmed that drone activity around Picatinny Arsenal and another naval weapons station in December did not raise any national security alarms. Drone operations are generally banned around military sites, but they do happen from time to time.