A U.S. senator has called for action regarding mysterious drones that have been spotted flying over sensitive areas in New Jersey and other parts of the Mid-Atlantic region. The senator emphasized the need for urgent intelligence analysis and, if necessary, for the drones to be taken out of the skies, especially if they are flying over airports or military bases.
There are concerns that these drones may be sharing airspace with commercial airlines, raising worries about potential safety risks. The lack of information regarding the ownership and purpose of these drones has been deemed unacceptable by officials.
Despite efforts to detect the drones using traditional methods, such as helicopters and radio, they have managed to evade detection. While there have been an increased number of sightings in recent days, officials note that some of the objects observed may have been planes rather than drones.
The initial sightings of the drones near the Picatinny Arsenal and over President-elect Donald Trump's golf course in Bedminster have sparked unease among residents. Descriptions of the drones provided by witnesses mention sizes of up to 6 feet in diameter, with some flying with their lights turned off.
In New Jersey, drones are legal for both recreational and commercial use but are subject to regulations set by local authorities and the Federal Aviation Administration. Operators are required to be FAA certified.
Lawmakers, including Sen. Cory Booker and Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia, have expressed frustration over the lack of transparency surrounding the drone sightings. The concern is that the absence of clear information could lead to fear and misinformation among the public.
Efforts are underway to investigate the sightings, with the FBI involved in gathering information from residents. State police and Homeland Security officials have met with lawmakers to discuss the situation, which has extended from the New York City area through New Jersey and into parts of Pennsylvania.
Two congressmen have called on the military to take action against the drones, citing incidents where drones followed Coast Guard vessels in close proximity. The Coast Guard has confirmed multiple low-altitude aircraft sightings near Island Beach State Park.
The situation remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the origin and purpose of these mysterious drones that continue to cause concern in the region.
