Official report or statement from the Department of Homeland Security or related federal agency

Pentagon Denies Iran Link as SUV-Sized Drones Over New Jersey Near Military Sites Spark Investigation

Dec 12, 2024, 01:00 PM

Mysterious drones, some reportedly as large as SUVs or bus-sized, have been spotted flying over parts of New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania since November, causing concern among residents and officials. Sightings have increased in recent weeks, with reports of dozens of drones flying in clusters and waves, primarily at night. The drones have been seen near sensitive locations, including military research facilities, and appear to avoid detection by traditional methods such as helicopters and radio. Some officials, including Republican Representative Jeff Van Drew, have suggested that the drones may be linked to an Iranian "mothership" off the East Coast of the United States. However, the Pentagon has denied these claims, stating that there is no Iranian ship off the coast and that the drones do not belong to the U.S. military or any foreign adversary. The Department of Homeland Security is investigating the sightings, and the federal government is sending drone-specific radar to New Jersey to help identify the source of the drones. Residents' frustration is growing due to the lack of answers from authorities.