FAA Tests Drone Detection Systems in New Jersey Amid Rising Sightings

CAPED MAY, N.J. — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently testing a variety of drone detection systems in Cape May, New Jersey, following a spike in drone sightings in the state last year. The two-week testing period, which began Monday, April 14, aims to assess the effectiveness of technology designed to identify various types of unmanned aerial systems.

During this initiative, the FAA is evaluating roughly 100 off-the-shelf drones, ranging from tiny models weighing less than one pound to more substantial craft up to 1,320 pounds. These tests will involve advanced equipment such as Remote ID, Acoustic Array, and X-Band radar, as noted in an official statement from the FAA.

“These tests will help determine the effectiveness of these technologies and whether they might interfere with FAA or aircraft navigation systems,” the agency said. The FAA previously conducted similar testing in Alaska and plans to extend its research later this year with tests in New Mexico, North Dakota, and Mississippi.

The decision to conduct the tests in New Jersey comes after the region saw a high volume of unexplained drone sightings in November and December of last year. Consequently, federal and local agencies were prompted to investigate the situation.

John Kirby, former White House National Security spokesperson, characterized the sightings at the time as likely being a mix of lawful commercial drones, hobbyist drones, law enforcement use, and even misidentified celestial objects. Kirby stated, “We assess that the sightings to date include a combination of lawful commercial drones, hobbyist drones and law enforcement drones, as well as manned fixed-wing aircrafts, helicopters, and even stars that were mistakenly reported as drones.”

While officials have continuously stressed that there is no evidence of a security threat related to the sightings, concerns about the potential risks of drone interference have increased, particularly near airports. The FAA reported that more than 100 drone sightings are recorded near airports each month.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy criticized previous administration’s handling of drone management during a pre-release video shared with CNN. Referring to it as a “drone fiasco,” Duffy committed to a policy of “radical transparency” moving forward. “This administration has taken a completely different approach,” Duffy stated. “The FAA is doing this to ensure we can properly detect drones in our airspace and make sure they don’t interfere with airplane navigation systems. This is about protecting our national security and American safety.”

Earlier this year, tests performed by the Secret Service and the U.S. Navy on anti-drone systems in Washington, D.C., resulted in multiple alerts for planes approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, leading to growing concerns about radar confusion.