Senator Chuck Schumer Urges Deployment of Drone-Tracking Technology
After weeks of fear and confusion surrounding the drones seen flying over parts of New York and New Jersey, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer is pushing for the federal government to implement better drone-tracking technology. Schumer, a New York Democrat, is urging the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to deploy special technology that can identify and track drones back to their landing spots.
Growing Public Concern
There is a growing public concern as the federal government has not provided clear explanations about the operators of these drones nor have they taken steps to stop them. National security officials have indicated that the drones do not appear to be a sign of foreign interference.
Representative Jim Himes, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, expressed frustration over the lack of answers regarding the drone sightings, stating that “We don’t know” is not a sufficient response.
Call for Action
President-elect Donald Trump also weighed in on the issue, questioning how these drones could be flying without the government’s knowledge. He called for transparency and action, suggesting that the drones be shot down if necessary.
While certain agencies within the Department of Homeland Security have the authority to “incapacitate” drones, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas emphasized the need for expanded authorities to address this issue effectively.
Investigating Foreign Involvement
Mayorkas stated that there is no evidence of foreign involvement in the drone sightings in the Northeast and reassured the public that the matter is being thoroughly investigated. He also mentioned that federal aviation rules now require drones to broadcast their identities, but it is unclear if this information has been used to identify the operators of the drones.
Deploying Radar Technology
Senator Schumer is advocating for the use of declassified radar technology to differentiate between drones and birds, identify their electronic registration, and track them back to their landing locations. New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced that federal officials would be sending a drone detection system to the state to aid in investigations.
Mysterious Nighttime Flights Raise Concerns
Dozens of mysterious nighttime flights over New Jersey have raised alarms among residents and officials, particularly due to sightings near the Picatinny Arsenal and Trump’s golf course in Bedminster. While drones are legal in New Jersey for recreational and commercial purposes, operators must adhere to FAA regulations and flight restrictions.
Conclusion
The urgency to address the drone sightings in New York and New Jersey has prompted calls for enhanced drone-tracking technology and expanded authorities to mitigate potential risks. As investigations continue, the deployment of radar technology and drone detection systems will play a crucial role in identifying and addressing the source of these mysterious flights.
FAQs
Are drones legal in New Jersey?
Drones are legal in New Jersey for recreational and commercial use, but operators must comply with local and FAA regulations.
What actions are being taken to address the drone sightings?
Senator Schumer is urging the deployment of drone-tracking technology, while federal officials are sending drone detection systems to aid in investigations.