US escalates response over mysterious drone sightings on the East Coast

New York Governor Kathy Hochul said that Federal authorities would send a drone detection system to the state as they investigate mysterious drone sightings on the East Coast.

The Governor asked for the equipment after drone sightings forced local authorities to close the runways at the state’s Stewart International Airport the weekend before.

Locals have struggled with drone sightings for weeks after starting in New Jersey. The BBC reported that they have extended to Pennsylvania, Maryland, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.

Photo: Paul Gerke / X

The FBI launched an investigation in the second week of December. Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer requested that the government send a detection system to New Jersey, where most sightings have occurred.

According to the New York Times, NJ Governor Phil Murphy said they intensified between December 6 and 8, with nearly 50 reports, but locals have seen dozens. Despite the frequency, he clarified that there is no public safety concern.

According to the BBC, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said some reports confused drones with manned aircraft and said the sightings could be related to a change in Federal restrictions.

In the picture, sheriff Shaun Golden of Monmouth County is reviewing the local sighting reports. He was one of the local officials who asked for more transparent federal operations.

Photo: Monmouth County Sheriff Office

Residents have reported dozens of sightings in Monmouth County alone, as the picture, published by the sheriff's office, shows.

Photo: Monmouth County Sheriff Office

So, what do we know about the drones? The FBI investigation into the incidents is classified, so information has been tightly limited.

According to the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, information about the drones' manufacturer, model, make, and origin is unavailable.

The agency also said that, as the classified investigation continues, it is unclear who operates the drones (hobbyists, military, commercial, or other groups) or why.

What we do know, according to CNN, is that the drones appear to operate in patterns, turn off their lights, and evade police helicopters when approached. They only fly in the evening.

The locals' concerns are not just about the inconvenience. Local officials have warned of sightings in sensitive areas. According to CNN, West Milford Mayor Michele Dale reported 60 drones over local reservoirs.

Local media reported that drone sightings led to the one-hour closure of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. CNN reported that drones were also spotted near military facilities in New Jersey and over one of President-elect Trump's golf fields.

According to their website, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued temporary flight restrictions over some areas between December 6 and December 20.

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