Official announcements or publications from U.S. government agencies regarding new drone regulations

Michael McCaul Claims Chinese Spy Drones Over New Jersey, New York Military Sites

Dec 17, 2024, 11:03 PM

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul of Texas has claimed that unidentified drones spotted over parts of the United States, including New Jersey and New York, are likely 'spy drones' from China. McCaul expressed concerns about the drones being adversarial, especially those reported over military sites and bases, such as Picatinny Arsenal and Naval Weapons Station Earle. He stated that the U.S. government has been unable to identify the origin of these drones and criticized the lack of clear answers. McCaul also mentioned discussions with NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, who noted the drones' presence over military sites. The sightings have caused public concern, with incidents such as the temporary closure of Stewart International Airport in New York. While some officials, including Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, have suggested that many of the drones are commercial or hobbyist in nature, McCaul believes they align with China's recent activity near U.S. military installations. Federal agencies, including the FBI and Pentagon, have downplayed the threat, attributing many sightings to lawful activities or misidentifications.