The skies above New Jersey and other northeastern US states have been abuzz with mystery, as nearly a month of unexplained drone sightings continues to perplex residents and authorities alike.
Since November 18, dozens of drone reports have emerged, including sightings near sensitive locations like the Picatinny Arsenal military research facility and President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster, NJ. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has responded by imposing temporary flight restrictions in these areas, though similar reports have surfaced in multiple other states and even overseas.
Where Have Drones Been Spotted?
- New Jersey: The state has become a hotspot for reports, particularly near restricted areas like Bedminster and Picatinny.
- New York: Drones were reported over the Bronx on December 12, and drone activity briefly shut down Stewart Airfield on December 13.
- Connecticut: “Suspicious drone activity” prompted police to deploy a detection system near Groton and New London.
- Maryland: Former Governor Larry Hogan described seeing “dozens” of drones near his home.
- Massachusetts: Two men were arrested on December 14 for a “hazardous drone operation” near Logan Airport in Boston.
- Pennsylvania: Reports from Philadelphia and eastern parts of the state add to the growing list.
- Overseas: Drones have also been spotted near US military bases in the UK and Germany, raising questions about international implications.
What Do Authorities Say?
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas acknowledged the sightings, confirming that both drones and manned aircraft were involved. While he denied any foreign involvement, he assured the public that investigations are ongoing.
The Department of Homeland Security noted that the drones appear to evade traditional detection methods like helicopters and radio, with some reportedly traveling up to 6ft in diameter and operating without lights in a coordinated manner.
Speculation and Concerns
Some lawmakers have criticized the lack of transparency, while others have speculated about potential foreign involvement. New Jersey Representative Jeff Van Drew suggested the drones might originate from an Iranian “mothership,” though this claim remains unsubstantiated.
Illinois Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi raised concerns about China’s possible connection, while federal agencies continue to deny evidence of foreign origin.
One individual, a 39-year-old Chinese national, was arrested for flying a drone over a California Space Force Base, but authorities have not linked this incident to the northeast sightings.
Can the Drones Be Stopped?
President-elect Trump has called for immediate public disclosure, even suggesting drastic measures like shooting the drones down, though this is illegal. The FAA has warned against such actions, emphasizing that reckless drone operations could result in fines of up to $75,000 and certificate revocation for operators.
Meanwhile, lawmakers like New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer are urging the federal government to ramp up drone detection capabilities.
For now, the mystery of the drones continues to linger, leaving many residents uneasy and the nation searching for answers.
