The U.S. military is currently keeping a close eye on an unidentified “small” balloon that is flying at high altitudes over the western region of the country. Reports from two U.S. officials and a defense official indicate that a fighter aircraft was dispatched to monitor the balloon once it was detected hovering over Utah earlier today.
Despite the balloon reaching heights between 43,000 to 45,000 feet, officials have stated that it does not pose any significant national security threat to the United States. The ownership of the balloon remains a mystery, with early indications suggesting that it does not belong to a foreign government. The balloon is described as being non-maneuverable and carrying a small box-like payload.
In response to the situation, the National Security Council official referred inquiries to the Defense Department for official comments. A defense official from the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) confirmed that they will continue to track and monitor the balloon. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also confirmed that the balloon is not a threat to flight safety.
This recent balloon sighting comes roughly a year after a similar incident involving a Chinese surveillance balloon being shot down by the U.S. military in February 2023. Reports had revealed that the spy balloon was able to gather intelligence from sensitive U.S. military sites using an American internet service provider. The Chinese government had denied allegations of espionage, claiming the balloon was merely a civilian airship conducting meteorological research.
The presence of this mysterious balloon has triggered heightened surveillance measures by the U.S. military. While it may not currently pose a significant security threat, the origins and intentions behind the balloon remain unclear. The ongoing monitoring by authorities, in close coordination with relevant agencies, reflects the commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the nation’s airspace.
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