Reports of unidentified drones over New Jersey have left law enforcement scrambling for answers. Since mid-November, dozens of sightings have been recorded across the state, with some drones spotted near sensitive sites, including military facilities. Despite ongoing investigations led by the FBI, officials have yet to determine who is behind these flights or their purpose.
“These drones are operating at night, often in coordinated formations, and appear to evade detection efforts,” said Robert Wheeler, FBI Assistant Director of the Critical Incident Response Group. Residents and lawmakers are increasingly frustrated as answers remain elusive.
Sensitive Areas Targeted
The drones, some as large as six feet in diameter, have been sighted near critical infrastructure, such as military research centers and reservoirs. Middletown Mayor Tony Perry described a troubling incident involving a drone flying directly over Naval Weapons Station Earle. “Any unauthorized aircraft near this facility would typically face immediate action, yet we seem powerless against these drones,” Perry said.
Other sightings have been reported near the Picatinny Arsenal, a military research hub, and reservoirs in West Milford. Mayor Michele Dale noted 60 drones hovering over local water sources, raising concerns about possible surveillance of vital resources.
Speculations on Origin
While suspicions about foreign involvement have surfaced, no concrete evidence supports these theories. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh dismissed claims that Iranian operatives might be behind the activity, stating, “There is no evidence suggesting these drones are linked to a foreign adversary.”
State officials, however, remain uneasy. Assemblyman Brian Bergen expressed concern over the lack of actionable intelligence. “We are left in the dark. There’s no clarity on who is operating these drones or why,” he said.
Technical Evasion and Investigation Challenges
The drones have displayed advanced evasive capabilities, including turning off their lights and avoiding police helicopters. Belleville Mayor Michael Melham noted that these devices evade radar detection, possibly due to low emissions or sophisticated technology. Such tactics complicate efforts to identify their operators or track their origins.
Authorities are working to determine whether the drones are used by hobbyists, criminal organizations, or unidentified entities. Most of the drones exceed the size typical for recreational use, adding to the mystery.
Growing Frustration Among Officials
Lawmakers and local officials have voiced dissatisfaction with the lack of progress in the investigation. “This is madness,” said Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas. “It’s unacceptable that law enforcement has no solid leads on such a significant issue.”
Pequannock Mayor Ryan Herb echoed these sentiments, calling the situation an invasion. “We’re being overwhelmed by drones, and we have no idea where they’re coming from or who’s behind them,” he said.
Multi-Agency Investigation Underway
The FBI, in coordination with the New Jersey State Police, the Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, and the U.S. Coast Guard, is leading efforts to uncover the source of these drones. While no credible threat has been confirmed, the proximity of these drones to sensitive sites has heightened concerns about security.
Residents have been urged to share any relevant footage or information about the sightings to aid the investigation. The FBI emphasized the importance of public vigilance in addressing the situation.
