Unexplained Drone Sightings in New Jersey Raise Security Concerns

Mysterious drone sightings across New Jersey have left residents and officials baffled, sparking widespread security concerns despite reassurances from state authorities. Governor Phil Murphy stated there is no known threat to public safety but acknowledged the urgency of the situation as federal and local officials collaborate to uncover the source of the activity.
The FBI is leading an ongoing federal investigation into the sightings, as confirmed by the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness during a recent meeting with state and local representatives Timeline and Locations of Sightings
The sightings reportedly began on November 18 in Morris County, with drones described as being the size of bicycles or even small cars. Reports have since multiplied, spanning Morris and Somerset counties in the New York metropolitan area.
According to the FBI Newark Field Office, numerous reports have been filed by both residents and law enforcement officials. On December 3, the US Coast Guard noted an encounter with multiple low-altitude drones near Island Beach State Park. Although the drones did not interfere with operations or pose an immediate threat, their presence raised eyebrows.
In addition, drones were sighted near critical infrastructure, including the Picatinny Arsenal, a US military research facility, and President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster. This prompted the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to impose temporary flight restrictions over these areas.
The Picatinny Arsenal reported 11 instances of drone activity between November 13 and December 6, all verified by police officers or security personnel. A spokesperson confirmed the drones were unrelated to the facility’s operations.
Travel content creator Katie Caf described spotting five drones moving in a zigzag pattern, while West Milford Mayor Michele Dale reported seeing 60 drones flying over local reservoirs.
Official Statements
State and federal agencies have ruled out any governmental connections to the sightings. Governor Murphy acknowledged the frustration of not having definitive answers but reassured residents of no known risks.
However, concerns remain. Belleville Township Mayor Michael Melham reported that the drones primarily operate at night, often displaying flashing lights that switch off to avoid detection. Some speculate the drones may possess advanced evasion capabilities, making radar detection challenging.
Rep. Jeff Van Drew’s claim that the drones might originate from an Iranian “mothership” was quickly dismissed by Pentagon officials. Deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh categorically denied the existence of any Iranian vessel launching drones near the US.
The Department of Defense recently highlighted drones as a “significant threat” to national security. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin signed a classified strategy for countering unmanned systems to unify the Pentagon’s approach to mitigating these risks.