Mysterious drones have recently been observed flying over New Jersey, with reports indicating their presence over critical infrastructure such as military facilities and police departments. The sightings began around November 18 and have become a nightly occurrence, particularly noted near the Picatinny Arsenal, a key military research and manufacturing site.
Local officials, including Florham Park’s Chief of Police Joseph Orlando, have raised concerns about the drones, describing their activity as potentially “nefarious.” Despite an increase in sightings, with 49 reported on December 8 alone, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy stated that there is currently no known threat to public safety. He has convened meetings with federal and state officials to address the rising occurrences and ensure resident safety.
The identity of those operating the drones remains uncertain. Congressman Jeff Van Drew suggested potential foreign involvement, claiming intelligence sources indicated Iranian connections; however, this assertion was firmly rejected by Pentagon officials, who stated that there is no evidence linking these drones to any foreign entity.
The legal parameters governing drone flights in New Jersey allow for recreational and commercial use, provided operators comply with FAA regulations. There have been indications that some of these drones might be exceeding standard legal limits concerning size and nighttime operation, as they have been described as large, possibly measuring up to 6 feet in diameter, and flying for extended periods.
Residents have taken to social media to share videos of the drones, which some mistakenly attribute to UFOs or foreign surveillance. Efforts are underway for further investigation, with local police even deploying their drones to gather additional intelligence on the unidentifiable aircraft.
While the situation remains under scrutiny and further investigation is warranted, there is a sense of community engagement as residents report sightings to the FBI and provide photographic evidence to aid the inquiry. Although concerns are notable, it is hopeful that through collaborative efforts among local and federal authorities, clarity will be achieved, ensuring the safety of New Jersey residents.
In summary, ongoing investigations into the drone sightings over New Jersey reflect a growing concern for public safety and airspace security. With multiple agencies involved, there is a collective hope for resolution and better understanding of this unusual phenomenon.