High-tech radar used on battlefields could soon solve the mystery of drone sightings across the Northeast. Following numerous reports of unidentified aerial phenomena, U.S. officials are mobilizing advanced drone-detection systems previously deployed during the Ukraine-Russia war to investigate alleged nighttime drone activity. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently urged the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to deploy the Robin Radar System as part of their efforts.
Since mid-November, residents have reported sightings of drones across New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and other states, leading many to fear rogue operators or potential military experiments. Community panic intensified with over 5,000 tips lodged by concerned citizens about mysterious flying objects, with each report feeding speculation about national security threats and the integrity of airspace.
“I want to see a flock of Robin-like technology systems deployed across the New York City metropolitan area so we need the Department of Homeland Security to spring into action,” Schumer stated on the Senate floor.
The Robin Radar System, developed by Robin Radar USA Inc. from its origins as bird-detecting technology, is engineered to recognize and track unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). According to Kris Brost, general director of the company, the radar can differentiate between drones and manned aircraft, monitoring aerial patterns within roughly three miles. “Even if someone is trying to skirt the system, we’ll be able to detect them,” Brost added, highlighting the radar's ability to read radio frequencies from drones, provided the operators do not modify their devices.
Federal investigations have not found any evidence linking these incidents to national security risks. Joint statements issued by the FBI, DHS, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and Department of Defense (DOD) confirmed, “To date, we’ve found no evidence of anomalous activity, nor do these sightings present any risk to national security or public safety.”
Despite these reassurances, skepticism remains at the local level. For example, U.S. Coast Guard licensed captain Paul Sprieser, who reported having witnessed unidentified bright orbs hovering above New Jersey, is unconvinced by federal explanations. “There’s a large percentage of them [sightings] not explained by commercial aircraft,” Sprieser insisted.
The increase of reported sightings coincided with the earliest sunsets of the winter months, leading officials to believe the heightened awareness may be amplifying these reports. White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby mentioned there may be confusion due to legally operated drones by hobbyists and commercial users. “The Northeast corridor is one of the busiest airspaces in the country, with thousands of drones flying legally every day,” he explained.
Authorities are employing advanced detection technologies to resolve the confusion. Besides the Robin Radar System, federal officials are utilizing infrared cameras to assist law enforcement. While investigations proceed, officials express concern about amateur interventions. Recently, the FBI issued warnings after there was an increase of pilots of manned aircraft being hit with lasers reportedly aimed at suspected drones.
On the ground, tensions are flaring as some civilians take it upon themselves to investigate the alleged drones. New Jersey’s State Police and the Newark FBI office have interceded, imploring citizens not to shoot at suspected drones, which could endanger both aircraft pilots and the general public.
“Public hysteria” is how some describe the growing frenzy. Stacie Pettyjohn, director of defense programs at the Center for a New American Security, elaborated on the situation, saying, “My suspicion is this is largely due to the fact the government did not clearly explain what was going on.” The over-exaggeration of theories has involved everything from conspiracy theories linking the drones to military actions to ideas about extraterrestrial involvement, serving only to fuel public paranoia.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Governor Kathy Hochul reassured constituents stating: “We’re monitoring the situation closely.” Comparatively, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has recently spoken about drone sightings as concerning but confirmed there was currently no immediate public safety threat from the activity.
During this time of uncertainty, local leaders maintain their pursuit of answers. “I will be submitting a letter to the Homeland Security Secretary today, formally asking for federal authorities to give facts and explanations and not just reassurances without any answers,” said Connecticut Senator Tony Hwang.
There are also calls for state leaders to be authorized to counteract drone activity directly. New Jersey Representative Chris Smith articulated significant support for greater transparency. “I think we're dismissing this very prematurely,” he posited, advocating for immediate answers to discern the reality behind what remains largely unknown aerial phenomena.
Communications from federal agencies also noted the culprit of the drone sightings could be attributed to multiple benign sources including lawful commercial drones, hobbyist craft, and also potentially misidentified stars. Yet the calls for accountability on this matter remain evident.
The drone detection systems promise to shed more light on the situation. Law enforcement has expressed readiness to collaborate with federal efforts, and investigations are anticipated to continue as sightings persist.
