U.S. military fighter jets intercept high-altitude balloon over western U.S.
By Mallory Wilson and Ben Wolfgang - The Washington Times - Friday, February 23, 2024
U.S. military fighter jets intercepted a high-altitude balloon Friday flying over the western part of the country, officials said.
In a statement, North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD, said the balloon was flying at an altitude of 43,000 to 45,000 feet.
“The balloon was intercepted by NORAD fighters over Utah, who determined it was not maneuverable and did not present a threat to national security,” a NORAD spokesperson said. “NORAD will continue to track and monitor the balloon. The [Federal Aviation Administration] also determined the balloon posed no hazard to flight safety. NORAD remains in close coordination with the FAA to ensure flight safety.”
While the object is not a threat, its origin and purpose remain a mystery. The balloon was first spotted heading east in the jet stream at an altitude of more than 40,000 feet. It was seen over Colorado earlier in the day.
Rep. Matt Rosendale, Montana Republican, wrote on X that he and his staff “will be tracking this development closely.”
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https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2024/feb/23/military-monitoring-another-high-altitude-balloon-/
