Map Shows States Deploying Drone Detection Systems as Mystery Continues
December 16, 2024
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What’s New
Oklahoma and New York’s governors have announced that they are deploying drone detection systems amid ongoing mysterious drone sightings across the United States.
Newsweek reached out to the Oklahoma Governor’s Office and the New York Governor’s Office through their websites for comment.
Why It Matters
Last month, people in New Jersey began making multiple reports about mysterious drones spotted flying at night. Some drones are described to be about the size of a car, and some are seen with flashing lights.
Since the New Jersey reports, drones have also been spotted in New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and California, among others.
The sightings have drawn the attention of state and federal agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
What To Know
New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced that her state was receiving a drone detection system from federal resources on Sunday, with Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt announcing that his state was seeking similar systems.
The FBI and DHS previously issued a shared statement last week that there was no evidence of a national security threat related to the drone sightings. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby issued an updated statement on Monday, saying that federal agencies have determined the sightings to include “a combination of lawful commercial drones, hobbyist drones and law enforcement drones, as well as manned fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters and even stars that were mistakenly reported as drones.”
The response has prompted blowback, with some state leaders opting to seek answers for themselves.
What People Are Saying
In a State of Oklahoma press release, Stitt said: “Drones and unmanned aerial systems are an exciting new industry here in Oklahoma, and we want to make sure that industry has room to thrive. This technology is new, and because of that, we don’t have all the measures in place to ensure Oklahomans are protected from those who would use this technology to harm others. That’s why I’ve instructed [Commissioner of Public Safety and Homeland Security Advisor Tim] Tipton to invest in [Unmanned Aircraft Systems] detection systems. This will ensure that drones can operate safely while law enforcement can keep Oklahomans safe.”
In the same press release, Tipton said: “The activity happening in New Jersey and across the country is unsettling. While we’ve only had a few reports of drone activity in Oklahoma, we want to be ready in case the need arises. I’m glad Governor Stitt takes this threat seriously and will equip the Department of Public Safety adequately.”
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Hochul said: “In response to my calls for additional resources, our federal partners are sending a drone detection system to New York. I am grateful for the support, but we need more. Congress must pass a law that will give us the power to deal directly with the drones.”
Stock photo of a flying drone. Mysterious drone sightings have been reported across the U.S. recently. Stock photo of a flying drone. Mysterious drone sightings have been reported across the U.S. recently. George Almanza/Getty
What’s Next
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has also requested additional resources from the federal government. However, it’s unclear if New Jersey will receive drone detection systems similar to those in New York and Oklahoma.
How many other states plan to follow suit by requesting drone detection systems or more information about drones from federal agencies is also unclear.
Congress also has yet to take action on a law that outlines state responsibility when it comes to the recent drone sightings, as Hochul said.
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