The recent emergence of large aerial drones in central and northern New Jersey has raised concerns among residents and prompted local lawmakers to seek answers from federal authorities. Since November, sightings of these drones have proliferated, with residents capturing videos of the aircraft and sharing them online. In response, Senators from New York and New Jersey have sent a letter to leaders of the FBI, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and Department of Homeland Security (DHS), urging them to provide a briefing regarding the situation.
There is currently ambiguity surrounding the operators of these drones. The DHS has stated that there is no involvement from New Jersey state agencies, but comprehensive investigations are being conducted to identify the operators. While registered drones in the U.S. are generally traceable, it’s noted that alterations can render them untrackable. The drones spotted have been reported to be larger than standard models, raising questions about why they haven’t been easily tracked.
Federal officials, including White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby, have claimed there are no credible threats associated with these drone sightings. They suggested that many reported sightings could be misidentified manned aircraft instead. However, local officials have expressed skepticism about these claims, arguing that residents are witnessing something distinct and concerning.
Due to both safety and legal considerations, shooting down or intercepting a drone is generally prohibited. Any operation of a drone that exceeds 0.55 pounds requires FAA registration, and operators must adhere to specific regulations regarding flight altitude and airspace restrictions.
For those who observe what they believe to be suspicious drone activity, the DHS advises reporting it to local law enforcement. New Jersey residents can contact the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security for further guidance.
This situation highlights the ongoing challenges in regulating drone activity as drone technology continues to advance. The involvement of federal agencies in investigating these incidents is crucial to ensure public safety and reassure concerned citizens.
Hope remains that clarity will soon emerge regarding these mysterious drone sightings, reassuring residents and, if needed, guiding appropriate responses to protect their communities.