The White House addressed concerns on Dec. 12 regarding recent drone sightings in New Jersey, clarifying that they do not pose a threat to national security.
“We have no evidence at this time that the reported drone sightings pose a national security or public safety threat, or have a foreign nexus,” said White House national security spokesman John Kirby during a press briefing. He added, “To the contrary, upon review of available imagery, it appears that many of the reported sightings are actually manned aircraft being operated lawfully.”
The sightings, first reported on Nov. 13 in Morris and Hunterdon counties, have since spread to more than a dozen areas, including Monmouth, Ocean, and Camden counties. Residents described the objects as large, SUV-sized, and often flying in groups.
Particular concern arose because some sightings occurred near sensitive locations like the Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military research facility, and former President Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy described the technology as “very sophisticated,” adding, “The minute you get eyes on them, they go dark.”
Kirby noted that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the FBI, and the U.S. Coast Guard are investigating but have found no evidence of foreign involvement or activity in restricted airspace.
The FBI and DHS released a joint statement reiterating that they are working to confirm whether the sightings were drones, manned aircraft, or cases of mistaken identity. “Historically, we have experienced cases of mistaken identity, where reported drones are, in fact, manned aircraft or facilities,” the statement said.
Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) called for transparency, posting a letter to Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, FBI Director Chris Wray, and DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas urging the release of any available information to avoid spreading “rumors, fear, and misinformation.”
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) described the situation as “a quandary” and said he expects to receive a classified briefing soon.
Kirby highlighted a legislative gap in counter-drone authority, urging Congress to pass laws that would extend and expand existing measures to mitigate potential threats to airports and critical infrastructure.
