Overview

• The FAA has launched a two-week drone detection testing initiative in Cape May, New Jersey, running from April 14 to April 25, 2025.
• The tests involve operating several large drones and over 100 commercial off-the-shelf drones, utilizing technologies like Remote ID, Acoustic Array, and X-Band radar.
• Officials clarified that last year's unexplained drone sightings in the region were a mix of lawful drone operations, hobbyist activity, and misidentified objects, such as stars or other aircraft.
• This initiative builds on earlier off-airport drone detection tests in Alaska, with additional testing planned for New Mexico, North Dakota, and Mississippi later this year.
• Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the administration's commitment to transparency, contrasting it with what he described as a lack of clarity during previous administrations.