The Pentagon made efforts on Monday to alleviate concerns regarding drones that were reported to have been seen flying over a minimum of eight states. Major General Patrick Ryder, the Pentagon Press Secretary, emphasized that while the ongoing investigation is looking into “concerning activity,” the sight of drones in the sky is not unusual. He reassured the public that the presence of drones does not indicate any malicious intent or pose a threat to public safety.
The unease among the public first surfaced in mid-November with the sightings of drones over New Jersey. Subsequently, reports emerged from individuals in locations such as New York, Pennsylvania, and even Ohio, of sightings of drones hovering in the airspace. It was reported that drones were also spotted over a military installation, prompting Ryder to acknowledge that the presence of drones near military bases is not uncommon. He underlined that if it is determined that unauthorized drones are engaged in any harmful or malicious activities, military commanders have the authority to take necessary measures to address and counter these unmanned systems.
Despite the growing concern, U.S. officials have refrained from attributing responsibility to any specific entity for operating the drones in each instance. Ryder mentioned that many drones are operating lawfully, and caution should be exercised to avoid jumping to conclusions of ill intent or malevolent behavior. Addressing inquiries about the possibility of the drones being linked to a U.S. military operation, Ryder clarified that to the best of his knowledge, these drones were not affiliated with any military activities.
Confirming the seriousness of the situation, Scripps News verified through a reliable source that the House Intelligence Committee is scheduled to hold a classified briefing on the subject of the drones on Tuesday.
In response to the growing public concern, the Pentagon has taken steps to shed light on the recent phenomenon of drones being spotted in various states. Major General Patrick Ryder, acting as the Pentagon Press Secretary, provided insights into the ongoing investigation into the suspicious drone activity, reassuring the public that sightings of drones in the sky are not necessarily indicative of malicious intent or posing a threat to public safety.
The initial wave of concern emerged in mid-November when reports surfaced of drones being observed flying above New Jersey. Subsequently, similar sightings were documented in other states, including New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, prompting heightened vigilance among residents. Of particular note was an incident involving drones flying over a military facility, prompting Ryder to acknowledge that such occurrences near military bases are not uncommon. He emphasized that measures would be taken if unauthorized drones were found to be engaged in harmful or malicious activities, allowing military commanders to address and neutralize any potential threats posed by these unmanned aircraft.
Despite the mounting apprehension surrounding the sightings, U.S. officials have been cautious in attributing responsibility for the drone operations in each case. Ryder underscored that many drones operate within legal boundaries, urging restraint in presuming malicious intent or unlawful behavior.
