February 16, 2025
‘Not the Enemy’: White House Says Drones Over New Jersey Were FAA Authorized

‘Not the Enemy’: White House Says Drones Over New Jersey Were FAA Authorized

The White House has issued a statement saying that the recent spate of drone sightings across New Jersey were "authorized by the FAA."
A drone flying at night.
Photo Credit: Emrah Ayvali via Pexels

The White House has issued a statement confirming that the recent spate of drone sightings across New Jersey were authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that these drones “were not the enemy.” She stated that they were operating under approved permits for research and various other purposes.

“After research and study, the drones that were flying over New Jersey in large numbers were authorized to be flown by the FAA for research and various other reasons. Many of these drones were also hobbyists, recreational and private individuals that enjoy flying drones,” stated Leavitt.

The statement aims to quell public anxiety following weeks of reports about mysterious drones flying over the state.

Beginning in late November 2024, residents across multiple counties began observing large, unidentified drones moving silently through the night sky. The sightings sparked widespread concern and speculation, with many residents fearing potential security threats.  

In response to the growing number of reports, the FAA enacted restrictions on drone operations. The aviation regulator issued temporary flight restrictions for certain areas of the state.

The blanket restriction further served to intensify public scrutiny and questions. Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and local police departments, then launched investigations. The aim was to determine the origin and purpose of the drones.

Oronbb, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Drone Sightings Near Military Facilities 


While the White House has stated that the recent drone sightings over New Jersey were authorized by the FAA, it’s crucial to acknowledge the broader context of drone incursions near military facilities.

Drone incursions over military bases and critical infrastructure have become a growing concern nationwide. These incidents pose potential security risks, including:

Intelligence Gathering: Drones can be used to gather sensitive information about military operations, personnel, and equipment.

Interference with Operations: Drone flights can disrupt flight training, disrupt radar systems, and even pose a collision risk to aircraft.

Delivery of Contraband: Drones can be used to deliver contraband, such as weapons or drugs, into military installations.

More Questions than Answers?


The exact nature of the authorized drone operations remains undisclosed. The White House’s statement suggests that the sightings were part of legitimate activities with FAA approval. This clarification is expected to ease public concerns and reassure residents that the drones did not pose a threat to national security.  

However, some questions remain unanswered. The specific reasons for the drone flights, the organizations involved, and the scope of the FAA’s authorization are yet to be fully disclosed.

New Jersey has a significant military presence, including Naval Weapons Station Earle and Picatinny Arsenal. The bases reportedly experienced multiple airspace incursions in the recent ‘flap’.

While the exact number of these incursions is difficult to pinpoint due to varying reporting standards, reports of drones observed near these facilities was confirmed by base personnel.

While the recent New Jersey sightings have been stated to have FAA authorization, it appears that the US military had no advice of the drone activity.

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