Mysterious drone sightings across northeastern United States have prompted state officials to deploy detection devices and demand federal action.
According to AP News, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced that drone-detecting equipment deployed in the state has found "little to no evidence" of nefarious activities despite multiple reported sightings.
The state recorded 12 suspected drone sightings on Saturday and one on Sunday. Governor Murphy declined to provide specific details about the detection equipment but mentioned its capability to disable drones, though such actions are currently illegal on U.S. soil.
State Officials Push for Federal Action
Murphy expressed frustration with the current limitations on state powers in addressing drone concerns. He emphasized the need for Congress to grant states more authority in handling drone-related issues, as most regulatory power currently lies with the federal government.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas attempted to reassure the public about the situation. He acknowledged the drone sightings but maintained that investigations have revealed no malicious intent or foreign involvement.
President-elect Donald Trump added controversy to the situation by suggesting government withholding of information. He claimed "the government knows what is happening" but refused to disclose whether he had received briefings on the matter.
Multiple States Request Detection Equipment
New York and Pennsylvania have joined New Jersey in requesting drone-detection technology from federal authorities. Connecticut officials are also monitoring drone activity and comparing reported sightings with federal flight data.
Pentagon press secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided context about drone operations in the U.S. He revealed that approximately one million registered drones exist in the country, with about 8,000 flying on any given day.
Christopher Stadulis, a retired New York City firefighter and drone enthusiast, shared his observations from Clinton Township, New Jersey. He reported seeing clusters of large drones with unusual lighting patterns that differ from commercial aircraft.
Government Response and Legislative Action
U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer announced plans to introduce legislation addressing the drone situation. His proposal includes requirements for public briefings about drone activities and the establishment of a drone air traffic control system.
Recent incidents have heightened concerns, including a temporary airspace shutdown at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and arrests near Boston's Logan International Airport related to drone operations.
Military officials face limitations in addressing drone concerns within U.S. airspace due to domestic surveillance laws. This contrasts with their capabilities at overseas bases, where they can more readily identify drone origins.
The Path Forward
The surge in drone sightings across the northeastern United States has prompted state-level deployment of detection equipment and calls for enhanced federal oversight. New Jersey's findings of minimal suspicious activity come amid growing demands from multiple states for access to drone detection technology.
State and federal officials continue to investigate reported sightings while working within current legal constraints. The situation has sparked legislative initiatives aimed at improving drone monitoring capabilities and establishing clearer protocols for addressing potential threats in American airspace.
