Since mid-November, there have been numerous reports of drone activity in New Jersey, leading residents to look up at the night sky as lawmakers request information from the FBI and Department of Homeland Security.

Authorities stated on Thursday that while the source of these drones remains unclear, there is currently no evidence suggesting they pose any threat to national security or public safety.

According to White House National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby, the drones observed by the population are legally operated aircraft and do not represent a threat. They are reportedly not military drones from the U.S. nor are they linked to any foreign entity.

Despite this reassurance, some state lawmakers are calling for further clarification from federal officials regarding the drones’ origins.

Locations of drone sightings

The drones, compared in size to bicycles or small cars, were first noticed near Morris County on November 18, as reported by CNN.

There have been reports of unmanned aircraft flying over Naval Weapons Station Earle, Picatinny Arsenal, and the National Guard, according to statements from Homeland Security officials reported by the Asbury Park Press, part of the YSL News Network.

A public affairs representative confirmed at least two incidences of drone flights within the airspace of Naval Weapons Station Earle, though noted that no direct threats had been detected, according to DefenseScoop.

On a recent Sunday night, over a dozen drones reportedly trailed a 47-foot Coast Guard vessel near Island Beach State Park, causing disturbances for the crew, U.S. Representative Chris Smith from the 4th District remarked to the Asbury Park Press.

What size are the drones in New Jersey?

The drones have been reported to be approximately 6 feet in diameter and operate only at night, from dusk until 11 p.m., as stated by lawmakers in New Jersey, according to YSL News.

FBI and DHS officials have assessed the drone images and concluded they are legitimate manned aircraft operating within the law in the vicinity. Furthermore, no drone sightings have occurred in restricted airspace, as noted by authorities.

Reports of drones flying in groups

According to New Jersey Assemblyman Paul Kanitra, the drones have been observed flying in clusters, based on information provided to New Jersey legislators by DHS, as reported by the Asbury Park Press.

Lawmakers were informed that these drones operate for six to seven hours on a single charge, which was described as having an “extraordinary” battery life. Government radar, which includes an electro-optical infrared camera, has failed to detect the drones, the YSL News report indicates. Typically, this camera can spot drones at distances of 1 to 2 miles, and up to 10 miles for larger aircraft.

Investigations into the drone situation involve various agencies, including local and state officials in New Jersey, the FBI, DHS, and the Federal Aviation Administration, as mentioned by YSL News.