The White House, along with the FBI and Department of Homeland Security, has cast doubt on the recent surge of reported drone sightings across New Jersey, stating that many of the incidents may actually involve manned aircraft rather than unmanned drones.
John Kirby, the Biden administration’s national security spokesman, said in a press briefing Thursday that an analysis of available imagery suggests that the majority of reported sightings are simply aircraft operating lawfully, not drones. This follows a wave of reports from multiple counties in the state, which has raised concerns among residents and local officials, prompting calls for immediate action and transparency.
The reports of drones, totaling at least 3,000 sightings since mid-November, have caused alarm, with some local leaders calling for a state of emergency. In response, the White House has emphasized that no drones have been reported in restricted airspace, contradicting earlier military reports of unauthorized drone activity over sensitive military sites like Picatinny Arsenal and Naval Weapons Station Earle.
The investigations have also ruled out the possibility of foreign involvement, specifically the claim that drones might be launched from an Iranian “mothership” off the U.S. East Coast. Rep. Jeff Van Drew, a New Jersey congressman, had suggested this scenario, further urging that drones be “shot down,” a stance echoed by Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut. However, federal law prohibits private citizens from shooting at aircraft, including drones.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the sightings, Kirby assured that there was no evidence suggesting any public threat from the drones. The FBI continues to investigate, asking the public to share any relevant photos or videos of the incidents. While the situation remains unclear, federal agencies and law enforcement continue to monitor and investigate the reports for potential threats or malicious intent.
