Concern is rising over unidentified drone sightings in both New Jersey and New York. However, recently, the sightings have spread to Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Virginia. While many experts and officials are dismissing the events, residents and local authorities are not convinced.
The drone sightings in New Jersey began midway through last November. They were first spotted flying across the Raritan River. After this, sightings expanded statewide, including along the coast.
Most concern has stemmed from the fact the unidentified drones were spotted near the U.S. military base named Picatinny Arsenal, located in Morris County. The base serves as a research and manufacturing facility. In addition, the drones were spotted over Naval Weapons Stations Earle in Colts Neck, as well as above President-elect Trump’s golf course in Bedminster. These resulted in temporary flight restrictions issued by the FAA or the Federal Aviation Administration over the properties.
The FBI, Homeland Security, and FAA have stated these drones don’t appear to be a threat to public safety. Still, many are speculating who or where these drones are from.
In a statement by the White House, John Kirby, spokesman for National Security, stated there were no sightings in any restricted airspaces. The drones are said to be lawfully operated. The U.S. Coast Guard has also not found any foreign involvement from coastal vessels. Similarly, Governor Phil Murphy reiterated that the aircraft do not pose a threat. On the other hand, the governor is still asking for more resources to look into the drone sightings.
Despite these reassurances from officials, many residents remain on edge, while some even threaten to shoot down the drones. Jersey Congressmen, alongside U.S. Representatives and Senators say the same, calling for the military to shoot down the unidentified aircraft.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has also said “This has gone too far.” This comes after drone activity shut down runways at Stewart International Airport in New York. She is calling on Congress to pass bills that would strengthen the FAA’s oversight of drones.
The reason why these drones are odd is because they have avoided radar detection. Unlike standard drones, they do not emit any heat. According to Dawn Fantasia, an Assemblywoman briefed by the Department of Homeland Security, the drones can be up to 6 feet in diameter. This supports how some witnesses have described the drones to be the size of a small car.
I personally have seen several drones from my home and while driving. Myself and other peers agree these sightings can definitely be unsettling. With technology continuously advancing, we must make sure none are being misused.
Until we learn more, the most we can do is wonder. Are these sightings a simple misunderstanding, or can something ominous lie behind them?
Sources: What we know about the mysterious drones reported over the East Coast | CNN, Experts dismiss ‘unfounded’ drone panic as sightings reported in New Jersey, New York and elsewhere, Mystery drones in New Jersey: What we do and don’t know about the sightings | AP News, ‘This has gone too far’: Drones temporarily closed runways at NY airport, governor says
