A Coast Guard crew member has refuted White House claims that a swarm of drones seen near their vessel was likely misidentified aircraft. The incident, which occurred off the New Jersey coast, involved up to 30 drones tracking the boat for approximately 15 minutes.
According to the crew member, the drones appeared out of nowhere, maintaining a steady distance of 80 to 100 feet above the vessel and mimicking its course changes. The drones, described as large with flashing lights, eventually flew toward shore and out of sight.
John Kirby, a White House National Security Council spokesperson, downplayed the reports, stating the drones were likely airliners and posed no national security risk. However, the Coast Guard member strongly disagreed, calling the explanation “insulting.”
“We know the difference between planes and drones,” he said, describing the objects as sophisticated and likely government-made.
The FAA has since implemented a temporary ban on drone operations in parts of New Jersey, contradicting Kirby’s claim that the sightings were harmless. Observers say the administration’s response has only fueled speculation about the true nature of these incidents.
This episode is part of a series of recent drone sightings near sensitive locations, raising concerns about potential surveillance or security breaches. Critics argue the administration has not adequately addressed the growing risks.
