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A private aerial contractor has reportedly taken responsibility for the mysterious drone sightings that caused panic over New Jersey last year. During a panel at the Army’s UAS and Launched Effects Summit at Fort Rucker, Alabama, in August, the unnamed company revealed that their manned aerial craft was behind the incidents, according to an attendee who spoke with The New York Post.
The company allegedly conducted a live demonstration of their 20-foot aerial craft, showcasing its unique flight capabilities. The demonstration highlighted how the craft's movements could have been mistaken for unidentified flying objects (UFOs), leading to the widespread reports of mysterious drones. The aircraft reportedly performed exercises over New Jersey in November 2024 to test its capabilities, and these operations were not disclosed to the public due to the company's government contract.
The mystery began on November 13, 2024, when hundreds of drones were spotted over the Picatinny Arsenal Army base in Morris County, New Jersey, causing concern among residents. The sightings continued until mid-December, sparking various theories about their origin.
The Federal Aviation Administration had previously suggested that the drones were operated by hobbyists and recreational pilots. However, the recent admission by the aerial contractor provides a new perspective on the events that unfolded over New Jersey’s skies.