Introduction

Something inexplicable is unfolding in the skies of New Jersey, leaving a trail of confusion and concern among residents, law enforcement, and federal agencies alike. Reports have emerged of large, unidentifiable drones soaring over various New Jersey locales, evoking alarm and intrigue.

Details of the Sightings

According to New Jersey Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia, who was recently briefed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), these sightings began on November 18 and have been reported nearly every night since. In fact, some nights have seen as many as 180 drones reported in the sky, which range up to six feet in diameter and sometimes operate with their lights turned off, making them even harder to spot.

Government Response

Fantasia, alongside several state and local lawmakers, convened with state police and Homeland Security to address these unsettling occurrences. The drones have been seen not only across New Jersey but also extending into the New York City area and westward to parts of Pennsylvania, including over Philadelphia.

"We know nothing. PERIOD," Fantasia stated emphatically after the meeting, highlighting concerns about the unprecedented nature of these incidents and the lack of credible information surrounding them. While officials like Governor Phil Murphy assure the public that there is no known threat to safety, the statement has left many feeling uneasy. "I'm legitimately concerned for what the hell is going on because nobody knows," remarked state Assemblyman Brian Bergen. His sentiments echo a growing anxiety among citizens who feel like their airspace is under invasion.

Speculations About Origins

Local leaders, including Pequannock Mayor Ryan Herb, have voiced that the identity and origin of these drones remain a mystery. In a surprising twist, New Jersey Rep. Jeff Van Drew speculated on national television that the drones might originate from a "mothership" off the coast of Iran, a claim promptly dismissed by the Pentagon. Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh confirmed, "There is no Iranian ship off the coast of the United States," quelling fears of international espionage.

Safety Concerns and Investigations

Amid the panic, cryptic encounters with the drones have been noted by U.S. Coast Guard personnel; however, they reported that the drones were not interfering with operations and were not assessed as an immediate threat. Concerns about the drones are amplified due to their proximity to sensitive locations, including the Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military facility, and a golf course owned by former President Donald Trump.

Despite the rationale that recreational drone flying is legal in New Jersey, operators must adhere to FAA regulations. Alongside personal accounts, officials are actively soliciting any videos, photos or information that may help crack the case of these aerial apparitions.

Physical Capabilities of the Drones

Most astonishing is the scale of the sightings: the drones have been recorded traversing distances of over 24 kilometers and have reportedly remained airborne for up to seven hours. When tracking efforts are initiated, the drones mysteriously "go dark," intensifying intrigue and speculation about their technology and intent.

Historical Context

The mystery resonates beyond New Jersey, reminiscent of previous incidents reported with military personnel observing drone fleets over Virginia’s Langley Air Force Base. Those incidents prompted deliberations among federal agencies, considering the possibility of foreign surveillance, yet none materialized into an immediate threat.

Conclusion

As the situation continues to unfold, questions abound—who is operating these drones? What are their purposes? Are they a mere hobby or something more sinister? As the bafflement remains, one thing is clear: the skies over New Jersey have transformed into a realm of uncertainty, sparking fears and fascination in equal measure.

Stay tuned for the latest updates on this unfolding story!