Official state government announcements or actions

Ocean-Origin Drones Swarm New Jersey and Beyond; Lawmakers Call for State of Emergency

Dec 11, 2024, 05:14 PM

Lawmakers and residents in New Jersey are expressing concern over mysterious drones observed flying over the state and neighboring areas in recent weeks. The drones, some described as being the size of cars or buses, have been spotted near sensitive locations including military facilities such as Picatinny Arsenal and former President Donald Trump's Bedminster golf club. Rep. Chris Smith reported that a police officer observed 50 drones coming in from the ocean, and that between 12 and 30 drones followed a Coast Guard ship. The FBI has stated it does not know who is operating the drones and has taken little action on the potential threat, leading to frustration among lawmakers. The agency held a press conference but provided few details. The drones are described as "very sophisticated," with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy noting they go dark when spotted. Security experts and military analysts have raised national security concerns, doubting that hobbyists are involved given the drones' sophistication. Lawmakers, including Rep. Mark Green, are pushing for legislative action, introducing the Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act to address the growing threat. There have been calls for a state of emergency as sightings, which began in mid-November, extend to Pennsylvania and New York.