Dozens of unidentified aircraft, suspected to be drones, have been spotted flying over cities in the eastern United States since mid-November, igniting public curiosity and concern. Reports of sightings near sensitive locations, including military bases and airports, have prompted investigations by federal agencies. However, officials have yet to determine the source or purpose of these flights.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed on Saturday that they are actively investigating the sightings but have found no evidence to suggest the drones pose a threat to public safety or are linked to foreign adversaries.
“We have not been able to locate or identify the operators or the points of origin,” said a spokesperson from the Joint Staff, addressing concerns about sightings at two military bases in New Jersey. Despite the uncertainty, officials emphasized that they are treating the situation with caution and diligence.
Unidentified aircraft have been reported flying at night over New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. The first reported sighting occurred on November 18, according to the FBI. Some of these drones have been described as larger and more sophisticated than typical hobbyist drones, with the ability to evade detection and “go dark” when approached.
Military installations, such as Picatinny Arsenal and Naval Weapons Station Earle in New Jersey, have reported drone activity, as has a New York airport that serves both public and military needs. There have also been instances of suspected drones reportedly following a U.S. Coast Guard vessel and hovering near critical infrastructure.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy acknowledged the advanced capabilities of some of the drones during a press briefing on Monday. “Some of these suspected drones are very sophisticated,” he said, adding that their operators remain unidentified. Local residents have expressed both concern and fascination, with some speculating about potential surveillance activities or ties to foreign entities.
Despite the heightened attention, officials have stressed that drone incursions over military bases are not a new phenomenon. “This is not a new issue for us,” the Joint Staff spokesperson said. “We’ve had to deal with drone incursions over our bases for quite some time now. It’s something that we routinely respond to.”
U.S. Northern Command, responsible for homeland security, confirmed that it is monitoring the situation closely. Officials have not ruled out the possibility of the drones being operated by private entities, hobbyists, or other non-threatening sources. However, the lack of identification and the proximity to sensitive locations have prompted a cautious approach.
As federal and local agencies continue to investigate, they are urging the public to report any suspicious drone activity. While officials have reassured citizens that there is no immediate danger, the mystery surrounding the drones underscores the growing challenge of regulating and monitoring unmanned aircraft in U.S. airspace.
For now, the skies over the eastern United States remain a point of intrigue, as authorities work to unravel the origins and intentions behind these unexplained flights.
