Release Overview
The Office of the Director of National Intelligence delivered its annual UAP report to Congress on January 12, 2023. The assessment documented 510 total sightings through August 30, 2022, combining 144 cases from the 2021 report with 366 new incidents.1 Military aviators in controlled airspace provided most reports after reduced stigma increased data collection.2
Analysis of Cases
From the 366 new cases, investigators identified 163 as balloons, 26 as uncrewed aircraft systems, and 6 as airborne clutter like birds or debris.3 The remaining 171 cases displayed unusual flight characteristics and signatures that analysts could not match to known systems.4 These unresolved events remain under active investigation by the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office.5
Safety and Security Implications
The report emphasized ongoing flight safety hazards from UAP in restricted airspace.6 While no collisions occurred, officials tracked potential health effects on exposed crews.7 The findings raised concerns about possible intelligence collection by foreign adversaries.8
Institutional Response
AARO, established in July 2022, implemented standardized analysis workflows and expanded interagency data sharing.9 The office integrated sensor data across military services and intelligence agencies to evaluate new reports.10 Congressional leaders secured increased funding and oversight for AARO through bipartisan legislation.11
Ongoing Investigation
AARO continues analyzing the 171 anomalous events, stating most will likely receive conventional explanations with sufficient data.12 However, some cases may require new scientific frameworks or reveal advanced foreign technology.13 The office recommended broader sensor integration, automated analysis tools, and sustained research funding.14