The mysterious drones recently spotted across New Jersey appear to evade conventional tracking techniques, including helicopter surveillance and radio surveillance, according to information shared by state lawmakers on Wednesday Ministry of Homeland Security.
The New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, along with the New Jersey State Police, provided an update on recent reports of drones flying in the state. Local government officials, including mayors and state legislators, received updates from federal authorities on the unexpected drone sightings and the potential operators responsible for these aerial activities.
Additionally, the identity of those controlling the drones is still unknown based on the distributed DHS document that Montvale Mayor Mike Ghassali shared during the meeting. The handout included a direct FBI statement: “At this time, according to the FBI, there are no known specific or credible threats associated with these sightings,” as quoted by ABC News.
Rep. Dawn Fantasia, who also attended the briefing, shared on X that these drones measure up to 6 feet in diameter and function without light. The Morris County Republican took part in discussions with state police and Homeland Security officials about sightings that stretched from New York City to New Jersey to Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia. Fantasia also stated that these devices appear to be operated by companies other than hobbyists.

Erik Peterson, a Republican Assembly member who represents areas where there have been drone sightings, also attended the 90-minute session at a West Trenton state police facility. He claimed that while Department of Homeland Security officials were forthcoming during the discussion, they appeared to downplay certain concerns, noting that not every reported sighting has been confirmed as an actual drone incident. Peterson spoke about Homeland Security’s understanding of the identity, origins and purpose of these aerial objects, saying, “It’s my understanding that they have no idea.”
The nighttime flights, which began last month, have raised concerns, particularly because of their proximity to sensitive locations such as Picatinny Arsenal and President-elect Donald Trump’s Bedminster Golf Course. While the use of drones is permitted in New Jersey for both recreational and business purposes, operators must comply with local regulations and FAA guidelines and obtain appropriate certification.
The observed drones typically exceed the dimensions of standard hobby models.

Officials note that while reports of sightings have increased, some sightings may actually be aircraft rather than drones, with possible duplicate reports of the same drone.
The FBI is investigating and has asked the public to submit photos, videos or information related to the sightings. The Coast Guard confirmed the observation of several Low-flying aircraft near one of their vessels near Island Beach State Park, but said they were not perceived as an immediate threat. They support the FBI and state authorities in their investigations.
Despite calls from some officials for military intervention, the Pentagon said its initial assessment was that these drones did not come from a foreign adversary. Gov. Phil Murphy and law enforcement officials have stressed that the drones do not appear to pose an immediate threat to public safety. However, the ongoing mystery has led to calls for stricter measures Drone regulations.
Meanwhile, U.S. Reps. Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew advocate military intervention to neutralize the drones. Smith referred to a Coast Guard report of multiple drones tracking a lifeboat near Barnegat Light and Island Beach State Park. Additionally, in his letter to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Smith called for military support, citing the anti-drone capabilities of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
Coast Guard Lieutenant Luke Pinneo confirmed that “multiple low-flying aircraft were observed near one of our vessels near Island Beach State Park.” Pinneo said the aircraft did not pose an immediate threat or operational disruption. The Coast Guard is supporting the ongoing FBI and state investigations.
Gov. Phil Murphy and law enforcement officials have stressed that the drones do not appear to pose an immediate threat to public safety. He acknowledged the public’s concerns earlier this week.
Meanwhile, local lawmakers are cautiously favoring stricter regulations on drone use, with one proposing a temporary statewide ban.
Rep. Erik Peterson, who represents the affected areas, attended a 90-minute meeting in West Trenton about the drone concerns. He noted that while DHS officials were forthcoming, they appeared to downplay certain concerns, suggesting that not all reported sightings were confirmed drone activity. According to Peterson, the identity, origin and purpose of these objects remain unclear.