Source of 'UFO' panic, drone mystery claims responsibility for frenzy: report

A private aerial contractor has stepped forward to claim responsibility for the mysterious drone activity that unsettled New Jersey skies last year.

During an event at Fort Rucker, Alabama, known as the Army’s UAS and Launched Effects Summit in August, an attendee shared with The New York Post that the unnamed company admitted their manned aerial vehicles were behind the incidents.

“Do you remember that significant UFO scare in New Jersey last year? Well, that was our doing,” an employee from the contractor reportedly confessed, according to The Post.

A person holding a controller while a drone flies in the background

The revelation came as the company demonstrated the impressive capabilities of their 20-foot aerial craft, showcasing its distinctive flight patterns and the speed achieved with its four wings, as noted in the report by The New York Post. (iStock)

One individual, reflecting on their initial encounter with the aircraft, remarked, “I thought it was the military conducting tests on the base,” according to the report in The Post.

“I thought it was the military testing something out on the other side of the base,” the individual said while detailing their first impressions of the aircraft, according to The Post. 

The company claimed their aircraft was performing exercises to “test out their capabilities” over New Jersey in November 2024, The Post reported. The operations were reportedly not required to be disclosed to the public due to the company’s government contract. 

A stock image of a drone flying over a home

The admission reportedly came as the company conducted a live demonstration of the 20-foot aerial craft’s unique flight movements as it sped through the skies with its four wings.  (iStock)

“It feels like it’s a UFO because it defies what you’re expecting to see,” the source said, adding that there was an “uncanny valley feeling” as the aircraft quietly soared through the sky for a demonstration. 

“When it turned, you almost completely [lost] sight of it,” the individual told The Post. “Which is why I think people were seeing this up in the sky, and why there were reports of people seeing it and saying it disappeared.” 

All conference attendees and demonstrations were reportedly required to be approved by the administration at Fort Rucker, which strictly prohibited any use of aircraft containing Chinese-made parts, according to The Post. 

A stock image of a drone flying over the ocean at sunrise.

Hundreds of drones were spotted flying over neighborhoods in New Jersey last year, sparking mass hysteria and theories surrounding their origin.  (iStock)

“It would definitely have to be cleared,” the unnamed attendee reportedly said. “Somebody was 100% in charge of coordinating that.” 

The admission comes nearly one year after hundreds of drones flooded the Garden State’s skies, sparking fear throughout the area as residents expressed concerns over the origins of the aircraft. The saga began on Nov. 13, 2024, after a swarm of drones was spotted over the Picatinny Arsenal Army base in Morris County, and lasted until mid-December. 

Under the Trump administration, the Federal Aviation Administration revealed earlier this year that the mystery drones were actually hobbyists and recreational pilots. 

The Army and Fort Rucker did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment. 

You May Also Like
Trump floats replacing Freedom 250 concert with massive MAGA rally

Trump Considers Transforming Freedom 250 Concert into Grand MAGA Rally

On Saturday, President Trump proposed organizing a grand MAGA rally to mark…
Chicago teen takeover prevention: A Boy and His Dream hosts Mollison Elementary Restore the Youth Field Takeover in Bronzeville

Chicago Teens Reclaim Youth Spaces: Inspiring Event at Mollison Elementary in Bronzeville

CHICAGO (WLS) — Taking a stand against the disruptive teen gatherings that…
Dennis Hull, Blackhawks star who helped Canada win the '72 Summit Series, dies at 81

Remembering Dennis Hull: Blackhawks Legend and ’72 Summit Series Hero Passes Away at 81

Dennis Hull, known for his exceptional two-way play in the NHL and…
Drunk husband takes messy breakup with wife to the next level with home demolition

Intoxicated Spouse Escalates Divorce Drama by Demolishing Family Home

A domestic conflict in Pennsylvania escalated dramatically, leading to significant damage to…
'There will be no nuclear weapons'

World Leaders Commit to a Nuclear-Free Future

On Saturday, President Trump expressed that he was not in a rush…
FBI hunts most wanted neighbor next door who allegedly faked cancer, scammed loved ones for luxury getaways

FBI Pursues ‘Next-Door Neighbor’ Accused of Cancer Fraud and Luxury Scams

Minnesota fraud mastermind to face sentencing for $250 million scheme Emily Compagno,…
Woman stabbed to death on Atlanta MARTA train in 'senseless' attack, suspect arrested

Tragic Incident on Atlanta MARTA Train: Woman Fatally Stabbed in ‘Senseless’ Attack; Suspect Apprehended

In a tragic incident that unfolded in broad daylight on Saturday afternoon,…
Man who warned coworkers 'no one's going home today' gets prison term in fatal shooting

Tragic Office Warning: Man Sentenced to Prison for Fatal Workplace Shooting

ICE agent faces felony charges in Minnesota after pointing gun at civilians…
Haunting image emerges as suspect in Virginia deputy's death spotted; $60K reward offered

Chilling Image Released of Suspect in Virginia Deputy’s Death; Authorities Announce $60K Reward for Capture

The man described as “armed and extremely dangerous” and sought in connection…
English cops cuffed teen stabbing victim after attacker claimed racial assault

UK Police Arrest Teen Stabbing Victim Amid Controversial Racial Assault Allegation

In England, police are under intense examination after they restrained an 18-year-old…
White House says Trump is in

Trump Set to Open Great American State Fair Amidst Musician Withdrawals

In a surprising turn of events, former President Donald Trump is set…
Long Island beach reveals Marilyn Monroe birthday tribute

Marilyn Monroe Honored with Unique Tribute on Long Island Beach

It’s an idea that captures the imagination. A Long Island beach is…