The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and Department of Defense (DoD) have issued a joint statement regarding the ongoing response to reported drone sightings. The FAA has registered over one million drones in the United States, including commercial, hobbyist, and law enforcement drones.
Recently, the FBI received tips on more than 5,000 drone sightings. Approximately 100 leads have been generated from these reports, prompting federal support for state and local investigations. "Consistent with each of our unique missions and authorities, we are quickly working to prioritize and follow these leads," said the agencies in their statement. Advanced detection technology and trained visual observers have been deployed to assist.
The analysis of technical data suggests that most sightings involve lawful drones or misidentified objects such as manned aircraft or stars. No anomalies have been detected that pose a national security threat or public safety risk over civilian airspace in New Jersey or other northeastern states.
Acknowledging community concerns, the agencies continue supporting local authorities with advanced detection tools and law enforcement assistance. They urge Congress to pass counter-UAS legislation to expand existing counter-drone measures for identifying potential threats.
There have also been limited reports of drone sightings near military facilities in New Jersey and elsewhere within restricted airspace. The DoD emphasizes its serious stance on unauthorized access over its installations and coordinates closely with relevant authorities. Local commanders are engaged to ensure effective detection and mitigation strategies are implemented.
