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Overview
Reports of drones buzzing over New Jersey and other northeastern states have captured public attention, raising concerns about airspace security, potential threats, and the challenges of drone regulation. With more than one million drones lawfully registered with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and thousands more hobbyist, commercial, and law enforcement drones flying daily, the skies are becoming more crowded than ever.
But do these recent sightings represent a real threat, or is this a case of mistaken identity?
The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in collaboration with the New Jersey State Police, have been actively investigating these reports. And on December 12 & 17, they provided some clarity.
What You Should Know: Thousands of Drone Sightings — But No Anomalies Found
According to the FBI, there have been over 5,000 reported drone sightings in recent weeks, leading to approximately one-hundered (100) viable investigative leads. However, after analyzing technical data and citizen reports, investigators have not identified anything anomalous or threatening.
We assess that the sightings to date include a combination of lawful commercial drones, hobbyist drones, and law enforcement drones, as well as manned fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and even stars mistakenly reported as drones.
