Robert Alexander/Getty Images
© 2024 Blaze Media LLC. All rights reserved.
Balloon intercepted above Utah not a national security threat, NORAD reportedly says
February 23, 2024
A balloon that was intercepted above Utah does not pose a national security threat, the North American Aerospace Defense Command indicated, according to Fox News Digital.
"In close coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) detected a small balloon at an altitude varying between 43,000-45,000 ft," NORAD indicated, according to the outlet. "The balloon was intercepted by NORAD fighters over Utah, who determined it was not maneuverable and did not present a threat to national security. NORAD will continue to track and monitor the balloon. The FAA also determined the balloon posed no hazard to flight safety. NORAD remains in close coordination with the FAA to ensure flight safety."
CBS News reported that a U.S. official told the outlet that it was anticipated that the balloon would be above Georgia by Friday night.
"Shoot it down. Protect our country," tweeted South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a Republican.
"Shoot down the Spy balloon immediately!!!" GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia tweeted.
Last year, President Joe Biden came under heavy scrutiny for allowing a Chinese balloon to remain aloft in U.S. skies before finally moving to down it off the coast of South Carolina.
"Last year, the CCP sent a spy balloon to fly over Montana skies, and we still have yet to uncover the whole story. One year later, another unknown balloon is flying over American territory, and we know NOTHING," GOP Rep. Matt Rosendale of Montana tweeted.
Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!
Want to leave a tip?
We answer to you. Help keep our content free of advertisers and big tech censorship by leaving a tip today.
Want to join the conversation?
Already a subscriber?
Alex Nitzberg is a staff writer for Blaze News.
alexnitzberg
Alex Nitzberg
Alex Nitzberg is a staff writer for Blaze News. He is an accomplished composer and guitar player and host of the podcast “The Alex Nitzberg Show.”
@alexnitzberg →more stories
Sign up for the Blaze newsletter
By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and agree to receive content that may sometimes include advertisements. You may opt out at any time.
© 2024 Blaze Media LLC. All rights reserved.
Get the stories that matter most delivered directly to your inbox.
By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and agree to receive content that may sometimes include advertisements. You may opt out at any time.