Senator Chuck Schumer called on the federal government Sunday to deploy advanced radar technology to identify and address the mysterious swarms of drones causing alarm across New York and the broader tri-state area.
This follows New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s announcement that a “state-of-the-art drone detection system” was being sent to New York, though she provided limited details about the technology or its deployment, she also stated that ”this has gone too far” about the drone invasion.
Schumer emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to deploy the Robin radar system, a recently declassified 360-degree radar technology capable of detecting drones and tracing them back to their landing zones.
This morning Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer urged the Department of Homeland Security to immediately deploy now-unclassified, special drone-detection technology. The system will help state and federal law enforcement in their investigations @SPECNews1BUF pic.twitter.com/gocZNBl76i
— Halena Sepulveda (@HalenaSepulveda) December 15, 2024
“New Yorkers have significant questions about these drones, and we need answers,” Schumer said during a Sunday briefing. “You shouldn’t have to rely on guesswork to figure this out. There is technology that can solve this problem, and we need it here now.”
The Robin radar system, Schumer explained, can be mounted on either another drone or an aircraft. Its 360-degree capability makes it ideal for tracking the origin and destination of the unidentified drones.
“This radar has a much better chance of detecting what these objects are,” Schumer said. “There are hundreds of companies worldwide producing drones, and this technology will help identify which ones are responsible. Once we know, we can take the necessary steps, whether engaging with the manufacturers or addressing any broader concerns.”
Schumer expressed confidence that the drones are not U.S. military in origin, as the military would have disclosed their involvement. He noted that the mysterious flights do not currently appear to violate any laws unless they occur near airports or military installations.
Both Schumer and Hochul are advocating for legislation that mandates all drones be registered. Hochul pointed to the need for further support from Congress, specifically citing the proposed Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act, which would grant expanded authority and resources to state and local agencies to address drone-related incidents.
“This legislation is critical for responding to situations like this,” Hochul said. “New York and other states need these tools to ensure the safety of our residents and infrastructure.”
Reports of unidentified drones have surged in the region, with over 3,000 sightings in New Jersey alone this December. Sightings have been reported since mid-November, and the mysterious drones have been observed flying across New York, New Jersey, and other East Coast locations.
Local and state officials have voiced frustration with the federal response. Last week, the Biden administration’s national security adviser dismissed concerns, suggesting the objects might simply be planes or helicopters mistaken for drones.
Drone experts, however, have raised concerns that the objects could be linked to a foreign adversary or other organized efforts. While the Pentagon has denied such links, DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas acknowledged Sunday that federal agencies have some authority to “incapacitate” drones but emphasized the need for expanded powers.
“We have tools at our disposal, but we need broader authority to address this growing issue,” Mayorkas said, without elaborating on specific plans.
The lack of clarity on the drones’ origin has fueled public anxiety. While authorities maintain that there is no evidence of a direct threat, the mystery surrounding the drones has led to speculation. Some experts warn that the drones could be part of a sophisticated operation, while others believe they may simply represent advanced commercial or private technology.
President-elect Donald Trump has joined the chorus of voices calling for action, even suggesting that the drones be “shot down” if their origin and purpose remain unknown.
As New York prepares to deploy the promised detection system, Schumer reiterated the need for the Robin radar to provide immediate answers. “This isn’t just about New York. It’s about ensuring public safety and addressing concerns nationwide,” he said.
With legislation pending and advanced technology on the horizon, state and federal officials are under pressure to resolve the drone mystery and restore public confidence. Whether the Robin radar and legislative measures will be enough remains to be seen.
