Numerous drone sightings across New Jersey and surrounding states have puzzled experts, who have largely discounted the theory of a clandestine government operation. The absence of clear images and physical evidence hinders definitive conclusions.
The sightings, initially reported in late November, occur nightly from dusk until around 11 p.m. Witnesses describe the objects as approximately six feet in diameter, flying in formation with lights off, seemingly evading conventional detection methods. Reports vary from a handful to hundreds of sightings per night across New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut.
Brett Velicovich, a drone expert and CEO of Expert Drones, finds the classified government testing theory improbable. He notes that such tests typically involve notifying local authorities and occur in controlled environments to avoid public alarm. His experience with classified drone projects confirms established protocols of informing local law enforcement when operating in populated areas.
Stacie Pettyjohn, another drone specialist from the Center for New American Security, concurs, pointing out that government testing usually takes place on military bases or designated facilities, not over populated regions.
Both experts suggest the initial drone sightings might have triggered a wave of public misidentification, with ordinary aircraft mistaken for drones. The increased attention could also be attracting drone enthusiasts attempting to capture footage of the phenomenon, further fueling the confusion.
The FBI and Department of Homeland Security, in a joint statement, have downplayed the national security threat posed by the sightings, indicating that many reports appear to be misidentified conventional aircraft operating legally. They have not confirmed any drone presence in restricted airspace and have found no evidence linking the sightings to foreign activity.
While some have speculated about foreign involvement, particularly from adversaries like China, Russia, or Iran, Velicovich remains skeptical, though acknowledging their technological capabilities. Pettyjohn believes the operators are likely based locally, potentially spies or other malicious actors using relatively inconspicuous drones for their activities.
China expert Gordon Chang suggests the drones could be a diversionary tactic by a foreign power, designed to distract the U.S. from other events. He argues that a genuine attack would not be so overtly displayed.
