As questions swirl over the dozens of drone sightings in New Jersey and other locations along the East Coast, the Pentagon has shot down one theory circulating at the Capitol. During a House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing Wednesday, Dec. 11, New Jersey Congressman Jeff Van Drew criticized the Federal Aviation Administration for not taking action, before giving his opinion on what’s going on in the skies. 

“I’ve learned for real that there is circumstantial evidence that there is an Iranian mothership off the east coast of the United States and that’s launching these drone incursions,” Van Drew said. “They are from high, good sources, individuals who are reputable, individuals who speak with authority unfortunately are concerned with identifying who they are at this point, who are saying this, but this is true. It’s unacceptable and it’s frightening and our government has to act.” 

Later in the day, Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh was asked about Van Drew’s claims. 

“There is not any truth to that,” she said. “There is no Iranian ship off the coast of the United States, and there’s no so-called ‘mothership’ launching drones towards the United States.” 

Singh said there is no evidence that the drone activity is coming from a foreign entity or is the work of an adversary. She said the Pentagon will continue to monitor the situation.

Our Ray Bogan spoke with New Jersey Rep. Chris Smith, R, who requested U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin provide a state military base with the tools it needs to take down the mystery drones. Watch Ray’s report here.