In a recent press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed public concerns regarding the numerous drone sightings over New Jersey and other parts of the East Coast in late 2024. Leavitt clarified that these drones were operating legally, having been authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for various purposes, including research. She also noted that many of the drones were flown by hobbyists and private individuals, and that increased public curiosity contributed to the surge in drone activity. Leavitt emphasized that there was no hostile intent behind these flights, stating, “This was not the enemy.”
This clarification comes after weeks of public concern and media coverage regarding the drone sightings. In December 2024, multiple unidentified drones were reported entering the airspace over Naval Weapons Station Earle in Colts Neck, New Jersey. The Department of Homeland Security and the FBI investigated these incidents but found no direct threats to the installation. The naval base confirmed multiple instances of unidentified drones in its airspace but assured that robust security measures and advanced detection capabilities were in place.
Federal authorities, including the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security, have been involved in investigating these drone activities. Despite the initial concerns, officials have concluded that the majority of these sightings were of lawful drones operated for legitimate purposes, and there was no evidence to suggest any national security threat.
The FAA has been actively involved in monitoring and regulating drone activity to ensure safety and compliance with federal guidelines. The agency has issued temporary flight restrictions in certain areas to manage the increased drone activity and to address public concerns.
In summary, the recent drone sightings over New Jersey and the East Coast have been investigated by federal authorities, who have determined that the activities were authorized and posed no threat to public safety or national security. The increase in drone activity has been attributed to authorized research, recreational use by hobbyists, and heightened public interest.