Cracking the Drone Mystery: New Tech Needed, Say Officials

Recently, mysterious drones have been buzzing over New York and New Jersey, causing worry among residents and officials. Representative Jim Himes, a Democrat from Connecticut, said many people are frustrated due to the uncertainty about these flights. National security officials insist these drones don’t pose a foreign threat or public safety risk, but who’s operating them remains unclear. Senator Chuck Schumer urged the Department of Homeland Security to use advanced technology to identify these drones and their operators. He wants to answer New Yorkers’ questions about the sightings. However, the federal government hasn’t provided concrete answers during its media briefings. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas confirmed people are seeing drones but assured that authorities are investigating. Some reports suggest that what people think are drones might actually be manned aircraft. Last year, certain drones were required to broadcast remote identification. It’s not clear if this has helped in identifying the drones over New York and New Jersey.

Schumer proposed using a radio wave detector to track drones. This technology can distinguish between birds and drones and track them back to their landing spot. New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced federal officials are sending a drone detection system to the state, although details are scarce. The drone sightings began last month over New Jersey and have since spread to other states like Connecticut and Virginia. Some political leaders, including former President Trump, advocate for stronger measures like shooting down the drones. Certain Homeland Security agencies can “incapacitate” drones, but Mayorkas said their powers need expansion. The Senate is considering a bill that would allow local and state authorities to disrupt or disable drones. Representative Mike Waltz of Florida noted that the drone issue highlights gaps in agencies' authorities and between federal, state, and local bodies. He stressed the public’s disbelief that authorities can't trace the drones' origins.

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