On December 16, 2024, the upcoming U.S. President Trump’s nominee for National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz, pointed out on Sunday, December 15, that recent drone sightings in New Jersey and other states have highlighted vulnerabilities in U.S. airspace security that must be swiftly addressed.
However, the Biden administration has maintained a low-key stance on reports of drone sightings. Both the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have stated that most sightings actually involve manned aircraft, emphasizing that there is currently no evidence to suggest that these drones pose a threat to national security.
These responses have sparked dissatisfaction among U.S. congressional members, including Democrats, who are urging the government to hold briefings to address public concerns in a more transparent and proactive manner. Additionally, some lawmakers are calling for a review of relevant regulations.
Drone sightings surged in mid-November in New Jersey and have spread to Maryland, Massachusetts, and other locations in recent days. These sightings have garnered widespread public attention, prompting the creation of a Facebook page called “New Jersey Mystery Drones – let’s solve it,” which has attracted nearly 70,000 members.
Waltz emphasized that the American people are increasingly disappointed by the government’s delay in clarifying information about the drones.
Speaking to CBS News, Waltz said, “The drone issue has exposed gaps between our various agencies, highlighting jurisdictional gaps between the Department of Homeland Security, local law enforcement, and the Department of Defense.”
“President Trump once mentioned creating an Iron Dome defense system for the United States, which should encompass drone threats, not just focus on hostile actions like hypersonic missiles,” Waltz said. The “Iron Dome” developed in Israel with U.S. support is a mobile air defense system designed to intercept short-range rockets and artillery threats to densely populated areas.