Ocean County Leader

In recent weeks, a series of drone sightings have been reported over New Jersey, raising questions about their origin and purpose. The drones were first seen flying along the Raritan River but have since been spotted across the state, including near sensitive areas like the Picatinny Arsenal and President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster.

U.S. Representative Chris Smith revealed that a dozen drones followed a Coast Guard lifeboat near Barnegat Light and Island Beach State Park. Despite assurances from New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy that the drones do not pose a public safety threat, there are calls for stricter regulations on unmanned aircraft operations.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating these incidents alongside other agencies and has asked the public to provide any information they may have. Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia noted that some drones measure up to six feet in diameter and often operate with their lights off, which complicates detection efforts.

John Duesler from the Pennsylvania Drone Association suggested that some reports might confuse planes or helicopters for drones or exaggerate their size due to limited visibility at night.

Speculation about foreign involvement has circulated online; however, Pentagon officials maintain there is no evidence supporting such claims. "The military’s initial assessment after consulting with the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Council — that the drones are not of foreign origin — remains unchanged," said Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder.

Drones have also been reported in neighboring states like New York and Pennsylvania, as well as internationally in places like England near U.S. Air Force bases.

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