Spy ship rumours as drones spotted over New Jersey

Drones of indeterminate origin have been flying over New Jersey, prompting a mixed bag of responses from lawmakers.

- GRAIG GRAZIOSI

The state’s governor has insisted the drones are safe, while a congressman believes they’re the vanguard of an Iranian “mothership”. Homeland security officials and regional lawmakers met last week to discuss the sightings further.

Dozens of sightings of mysterious night-time flights began last month and have raised growing concern among residents and officials. Part of the worry stems from the flying objects initially being spotted near the Picatinny Arsenal, a US military research and manufacturing facility, and over president-elect Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster.

Drones are legal in New Jersey for recreational and commercial use but they are subject to local and Federal Aviation Administration regulations and flight restrictions. Operators must also be FAA-certified.

Mr Trump weighed in on Friday, calling on the airborne objects to be shot down. “Mystery drone sightings all over the country,” he wrote on Truth Social. “Can this really be happening without our government’s knowledge. I don’t think so! Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, shoot them down!!!”