It sounds like the wild imagination of conspiracy theorists - large unidentified drones are said to have mysteriously appeared over towns and even sensitive military sites. Yet that's exactly what's been happening across New Jersey over the past month, sparking concern and confusion among residents and authorities alike.
Reports began to surface in early December, originating near the Picatinny Arsenal military facility and even President-elect Donald Trump's Bedminster golf resort. Sightings have since surged, with reports across New Jersey and spreading to neighboring Pennsylvania and New York.
In the real year 2024, almost everyone will be ready with a smartphone. People have shared numerous videos and photos of mysterious drones online and with the FBI.
So far, federal authorities see no evidence that the drones pose any threat or are linked to foreign adversaries. However, these drones don't appear to be typical drones flown by videographers or FPV enthusiasts. Several witnesses described the drones as "car-sized" and up to 6 feet wide. They are reported to operate under the cover of darkness, sometimes cruising with their lights off, appearing to be invisible. Sightings always occur after sunset.
Worse, the drones can evade detection by helicopters and radio signals, according to a state lawmaker who told the Department of Homeland Security. In response, two New Jersey representatives, Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew, called on the military to use artificial intelligence for analysis, while Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew called on the military to shoot down the drones directly. Van Drew has even speculated that the incidents could be part of an orchestrated Iranian plot, arguing that the drones may have been launched from a "mothership" offshore - a claim the Pentagon denies.
As sightings continue to increase, pressure mounts for officials to take decisive action. Governor Phil Murphy said federal troops could shoot down the drone if its origin remains unknown. At the same time, he is trying to reassure the public, stressing that there is no credible threat.
The FBI has taken a similar view, suggesting that many of the reported "drones" may actually be ordinary aircraft mistaken for amateur observers.
One fan named Mick West cited his own experience to support this theory. He initially recorded what he thought was a drone, but later confirmed it was a light aircraft.
Still, it seems unlikely that all sightings were considered mass hysteria, especially given the active involvement of the FBI. If you happen to notice anything unusual in New Jersey's skies, the FBI encourages you to call the hotline at 1-800-225-5324 or submit a tip through its website.