At a press conference in Seaside Heights today, Rep. Chris Smith raised alarm over the growing number of unidentified drones spotted across New Jersey and demanded federal action to address potential threats. Smith criticized Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for dismissing the issue, calling his remarks “insulting” to the intelligence of Americans who have witnessed the unusual drone activity.
“Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas shockingly said this week, ‘We haven’t seen anything unusual. We know of no threat.’ What? The massive invasion of drones observed and recorded by many of our citizens—including law enforcement and military personnel—isn’t unusual?” Smith asked.
The congressman expressed frustration over the federal government’s inability to identify the drones’ origins, missions, or potential threats. He also questioned the lack of action despite repeated reports, including sightings at sensitive locations such as Naval Weapons Station Earle and near Coast Guard vessels.
“For weeks, we’ve asked for the truth and action to mitigate any and all threats to people and property. Now we are demanding it,” Smith said.
Smith suggested the drones may represent sophisticated technologies deployed by adversarial nations like Russia, China, Iran, or North Korea. “The elusive maneuvering of these drones suggests a major military power sophistication that begs the question whether they have been deployed to test our defense capabilities—or worse,” he said, drawing comparisons to the recent Chinese spy balloon incident.
The congressman revealed that he has written to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, urging the Pentagon to authorize the use of force to down one or more drones to uncover their origin and intent. “Why can’t we bag at least one drone and get to the bottom of this? Have we so little control over our airspace?” he asked.
Smith also highlighted the role of drones in modern warfare, emphasizing the need for vigilance. “Knowing how drone warfare has radically changed warfighting in Ukraine, Russia, and the Middle East, this is not the time to trivialize or dismiss the threat,” he said.