Congressional hearing raises alarms over unidentified drones near military installations in New York and New Jersey
December 31, 2024 | Homeland Security: House Committee, Standing Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
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In a recent hearing held by the U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security, lawmakers expressed deep concerns over the increasing presence of unidentified drones flying over sensitive infrastructure in New York and New Jersey. The discussions highlighted the urgent need for improved capabilities to identify and respond to these unmanned aerial systems, which pose potential threats to national security.
During the meeting, representatives voiced frustration over the lack of clarity regarding the origins and intentions of these drones. One notable exchange involved a member questioning the adequacy of the current $500,000 annual budget allocated for drone detection technology, suggesting that such funding is insufficient to ensure the safety of American lives. The committee acknowledged that the issue extends beyond technology, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach that includes personnel and operational resources.
Concerns were particularly raised by Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, who detailed sightings of drones over critical sites, including military installations and power plants. She stressed the importance of understanding whether these drones represent a security threat, especially in light of recent incidents involving foreign surveillance, such as the Chinese spy balloon. Malliotakis urged federal agencies to collaborate more effectively with local authorities to address these incidents and ensure public safety.
The committee also explored the potential use of electronic warfare and kinetic options to counter drone threats. However, questions remained about the effectiveness of these measures against advanced drone technologies, such as fiber optic drones, which may not be easily disrupted.
As the hearing concluded, lawmakers underscored the necessity for a coordinated response among federal, state, and local agencies to identify and mitigate the risks posed by these unmanned aerial systems. The discussions reflect a growing recognition of the challenges posed by drone technology and the imperative to enhance national security measures to protect communities across the nation.
During the meeting, representatives voiced frustration over the lack of clarity regarding the origins and intentions of these drones. One notable exchange involved a member questioning the adequacy of the current $500,000 annual budget allocated for drone detection technology, suggesting that such funding is insufficient to ensure the safety of American lives. The committee acknowledged that the issue extends beyond technology, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach that includes personnel and operational resources.
Concerns were particularly raised by Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, who detailed sightings of drones over critical sites, including military installations and power plants. She stressed the importance of understanding whether these drones represent a security threat, especially in light of recent incidents involving foreign surveillance, such as the Chinese spy balloon. Malliotakis urged federal agencies to collaborate more effectively with local authorities to address these incidents and ensure public safety.
The committee also explored the potential use of electronic warfare and kinetic options to counter drone threats. However, questions remained about the effectiveness of these measures against advanced drone technologies, such as fiber optic drones, which may not be easily disrupted.
As the hearing concluded, lawmakers underscored the necessity for a coordinated response among federal, state, and local agencies to identify and mitigate the risks posed by these unmanned aerial systems. The discussions reflect a growing recognition of the challenges posed by drone technology and the imperative to enhance national security measures to protect communities across the nation.
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