According to the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), the FBI has received over 5,000 reports of drone sightings recently, generating nearly 100 leads. Reports of what appear to be drones flying over New Jersey’s and New York’s night skies began to emerge in mid-November, sparking growing public concern.

   Authorities, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the DoD, are investigating the sightings. In a joint statement, these agencies noted that no direct threat from the drones has been identified. However, unease continues to spread among the public, especially given the drones’ unusual activity.

   “Take them out of the skies, especially if they’re flying over airports or military bases,” Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut said, echoing the concerns of many.

   Adding to the anxiety is the fact that some drones have been spotted flying over critical infrastructure and even military bases. For example, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), drones have been sighted near Langley Air Force Base in Virginia over the past year, but the issue has gained renewed attention due to the current wave of sightings. Observers have also noted that these drones appear larger than the typical hobbyist models. 

   Reports of sightings have continued to pour in, prompting further responses from federal authorities. The DoD emphasized the seriousness of unauthorized airspace intrusions in its joint statement with the DHS, FBI, and FAA:

“DoD takes unauthorized access over its airspace seriously and coordinates closely with federal, state, and local law enforcement authorities, as appropriate. Local commanders are actively engaged to ensure there are appropriate detection and mitigation measures in place.” the Joint statement concluded.

   In response to the growing concern, the FAA has implemented temporary flight restrictions. On Nov. 25, a no-fly zone within two nautical miles of Picatinny Arsenal, a site frequently overflown by drones, was established and remains in effect until Dec. 26. Similarly, on Dec. 4, the FAA issued a temporary flight restriction for one of President-elect Donald Trump’s golf courses in Bedminster, New Jersey, effective until Dec. 20.

   National concerns have even led some individuals to mistakenly report stars as drones. So far, the authorities have not clearly identified where the drones have been flying from, and what exactly their motives are.