The mysterious drones spotted across New Jersey recently seem to evade conventional tracking techniques, including helicopter surveillance and radio monitoring, according to information shared by US state lawmaker briefed Wednesday by the Department of Homeland Security.
The New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, along with the NJ State Police, provided a briefing regarding the recent reports of drones flying in the state. Local government officials including mayors and state legislators received updates from federal authorities regarding current intelligence about the unexpected drone sightings and the potential operators responsible for these aerial activities.
Additionally, based on the distributed DHS document shared by Montvale’s Mayor Mike Ghassali during the meeting, the identity of those controlling the drones is still unknown. The handout contained a direct FBI statement, “At this time, according to the FBI, there are no known specific or credible threats related to these sightings,” as quoted by ABC News.
Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia, who was also part of the briefing, shared on X that these drones measure up to 6 feet across and operate without lights. The Morris County Republican participated in discussions with state police and Homeland Security officials regarding sightings spanning from New York City through New Jersey into Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia. Fantasia also indicated these devices appear to be operated by entities other than hobbyists.
Erik Peterson, a Republican Assembly man representing areas where drone sightings occurred, also participated in the 90-minute meeting at a West Trenton state police facility. He claimed that while Department of Homeland Security officials were accommodating during the discussion, they seemed to downplay certain worries, noting that not every reported sighting had been verified as an actual drone incident. Talking about Homeland Security’s understanding of the identity, origin, and purpose of these aerial objects, Peterson said, “My understanding is they have no clue.”
The nocturnal flights, which began last month, have sparked concerns, particularly due to their proximity to sensitive locations like the Picatinny Arsenal and President-elect Donald Trump’s Bedminster golf course. Whilst drone operation is permitted in New Jersey for both leisure and business purposes, operators must comply with local regulations, FAA guidelines and obtain proper certification.
The observed drones typically exceed the dimensions of standard hobby models.
Mystery Drones Spotted Over Trump’s Golf Course, U.S. Military Research Site In New Jersey
Officials note that whilst sighting reports have increased, some observations may actually be aircraft rather than drones, with possible duplicate reports of the same drone.
The FBI is investigating and has asked the public to submit any photos, videos, or information related to the sightings. The Coast Guard confirmed observing multiple low-altitude aircraft near one of their vessels near Island Beach State Park but stated they weren’t perceived as an immediate threat. They are assisting the FBI and state agencies in the investigation.
Despite calls from some officials for military intervention, the Pentagon has stated its initial assessment is that these drones are not from a foreign adversary. Governor Phil Murphy and law enforcement officials have emphasized that the drones do not appear to pose an immediate threat to public safety. However, the ongoing mystery has prompted calls for stricter drone regulations.
Meanwhile, US Representatives Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew advocate military intervention to neutralise the drones. Smith referenced a Coast Guard report of multiple drones pursuing a lifeboat near Barnegat Light and Island Beach State Park. Additionally, Smith’s letter to Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin requested military assistance, citing Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst’s drone countermeasure capabilities.
Coast Guard Lt. Luke Pinneo confirmed “multiple low-altitude aircraft were observed in vicinity of one of our vessels near Island Beach State Park.” The aircraft posed no immediate threat or operational disruption, according to Pinneo. The Coast Guard supports the ongoing FBI and state investigation.
Governor Phil Murphy and law enforcement officials have emphasized that the drones do not appear to pose an immediate threat to public safety. He acknowledged public concerns earlier this week.
In the meantime, as a precautionary measure, local legislators advocate stricter drone operation regulations, with one proposing a temporary statewide ban.
Assemblyman Erik Peterson, representing affected areas, attended a 90-minute West Trenton meeting over the drone concerns. He noted that whilst DHS officials were accommodating, they appeared to downplay certain concerns, indicating not all reported sightings were confirmed drone activity. The identity, origin, and purpose of these objects remain unclear, according to Peterson.
