The Department of Defense (DOD) confirmed this week that the unidentified drones flying over New Jersey and nearby states, particularly near sensitive sites and military installations, are not U.S. military assets, experimental systems, or part of classified operations.
According to the department, most of the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) are believed to be recreational or commercial drones.
The drone sightings began in November, with residents reporting drones over coastal areas like Cape May and near military facilities. Reports have since expanded to New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Connecticut. Witnesses described some drones as unusually large, while the FBI has received more than 6,000 tips about unexplained drone activity.
How are dozens of SUV-sized drones flying over New Jersey on a nightly basis and nobody in our government knows where they’re coming from or what they’re doing?
FBI, Congress, local officials – all baffled.
And no one is even talking about it?
WHAT?!pic.twitter.com/7ldNDqF94Y
— The Kevin Harlan Effect (@KevHarlanEffect) December 11, 2024
On Tuesday, multiple federal agencies, including the Pentagon, FBI, and Department of Homeland Security, briefed the House Intelligence Committee. Lawmakers assured the public that there is no evidence of malicious intent or foreign involvement. Rep. Jim Himes stated, “The drones are not linked to the U.S. government or unlawful activity.”
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said the military takes these incidents seriously and has measures to counter drones that threaten U.S. facilities. He mentioned signal disruption, interception, or redirection as possible responses but did not provide specifics for security reasons. Ryder also emphasized that U.S. military surveillance capabilities are limited within domestic airspace.
Despite reassurances, lawmakers are calling for action to address gaps in drone regulations. Rep. Chris Smith plans to introduce legislation granting state police the authority to track and disable unauthorized drones. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi said Congress needs to update laws to keep pace with advancing drone technology.
The All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office, tasked with investigating unexplained aerial phenomena (UAP), is monitoring the reports but has found no evidence linking the drones to UAP activity.
While federal agencies agree there is no immediate threat to national security, the rise in drone sightings near sensitive areas has prompted increased vigilance. Lawmakers and officials continue to work on solutions to improve drone monitoring and response capabilities.
