The United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) announced on Dec. 11 that it is monitoring reports of unauthorized drone activity near military installations in New Jersey, raising concerns about security at Picatinny Arsenal and Naval Weapons Station Earle.
USNORTHCOM confirmed it is closely observing reports of unauthorized drone flights near two key military installations in New Jersey: Picatinny Arsenal and Naval Weapons Station Earle. The incidents have prompted investigations by local law enforcement and the FBI.
In a statement, USNORTHCOM emphasized that it has not been requested to assist with the current investigations but remains ready to respond if the situation escalates. "If these incidents require additional Department of Defense (DoD) assistance, the Secretary of the Military Department or relevant DoD component head concerned can coordinate with USNORTHCOM for an enhanced or increased response," the command stated.
USNORTHCOM, in collaboration with other military organizations and interagency partners, has thoroughly analyzed the reported incidents. While no immediate threats to military operations have been confirmed, the command maintains a state of readiness.
The DOD's recent Strategy for Countering Unmanned Systems, signed on Dec. 2, 2024, underscores the importance of countering such threats. As part of this strategy, USNORTHCOM has been designated as the lead for Homeland Counter-small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (HC-sUAS) operations in the continental U.S. and Alaska.
This role involves aligning and streamlining DOD efforts to detect, track, and mitigate drone threats. USNORTHCOM's responsibilities include preparing response plans, maintaining counter-UAS equipment inventories, and assisting with training.
"Through this new strategy, USNORTHCOM will synchronize whole-of-government efforts to better respond to UAS incidents at military installations and surge support if needed," said Gen. Gregory Guillot, commander of USNORTHCOM.
USNORTHCOM collaborates with federal agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, and the Federal Aviation Administration to enhance information sharing and response procedures.
While installation commanders retain responsibility for securing their facilities, the command can deploy advanced counter-drone technology upon request.
The capability to deploy "fly-away kits" — portable counter-UAS systems — enables USNORTHCOM to respond quickly to emerging threats at installations without sufficient defenses.
"If there's a threat at an installation that doesn't have sufficient C-sUAS capability, USNORTHCOM could fly in a capability to address the threat and then return to an alert status," Guillot explained.
Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) pose an evolving security challenge for military installations. Recent experiments, such as USNORTHCOM's Falcon Peak 25 Counter-sUAS project, aim to bolster detection and mitigation efforts against this growing concern.
Jim Thomas ✉
Jim Thomas is a writer based in Indiana. He holds a bachelor's degree in Political Science, a law degree from U.I.C. Law School, and has practiced law for more than 20 years.
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