New York Senator Chuck Schumer on Sunday called on the federal government to use newly declassified radar technology to address the mysterious swarms of drones alarming the tri-state region. The Senate Democratic leader joined Governor Kathy Hochul in pushing for enhanced federal support, following her announcement that a state-of-the-art drone detection system was being deployed in New York.
Hochul did not provide specifics on the technology or its deployment but emphasized the need for additional resources to investigate the baffling sightings. Schumer, however, urged the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to deploy “the Robin,” a 360-degree radar capable of identifying drones and tracing them to their origins.
“New Yorkers have tremendous questions about [the drones]. We are going to get the answers,” Schumer said, stressing that advanced technology like the Robin is crucial. The radar system, which can be mounted on drones or airplanes, is designed to provide comprehensive tracking capabilities.
“There are hundreds of companies all over the globe that make drones. We don’t know which ones these are,” Schumer said, adding that the radar would help pinpoint their manufacturers and provide critical leads.
Schumer dismissed concerns that the drones might belong to the U.S. military, noting that the Pentagon would have disclosed such information. He also stated that the drones appear not to be breaking laws unless they are operating near military bases or airports.
Both Schumer and Hochul are advocating for stronger drone regulations, including mandatory registration of all drones. Hochul also highlighted the importance of passing the Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act to grant states more authority and resources to respond to similar incidents.
The mysterious drones have been a source of growing concern along the East Coast, with over 3,000 sightings reported in New Jersey in December alone. Reports began surfacing in mid-November, primarily centered in New Jersey, and have continued to rise.
Local officials expressed frustration last week after the Biden administration’s national security adviser dismissed the sightings as misidentified planes or helicopters. Drone experts have speculated that the objects could be linked to adversaries, but the Pentagon and DHS have downplayed such claims, stating there is no known threat.
President-elect Donald Trump has weighed in on the issue, calling for federal authorities to “shoot them down.” DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas acknowledged Sunday that some agencies have the power to incapacitate drones but called for expanded authorities to respond more effectively.
Mayorkas claimed that the drones do not appear to be tied to any foreign government.
