The NPR Politics Podcast More UFOs Shot Down By US Air Force
Feb 13, 2023
Greg Myre, NPR's national security correspondent, dives into the recent shootdowns of unidentified flying objects by the U.S. military. He discusses the implications for national security amid escalating tensions with China, particularly following the interception of a Chinese spy balloon. Myre also highlights the government's careful classification of these aerial threats and the challenges of balancing vigilance with practicality. With the stakes high, he emphasizes the importance of communication from leadership regarding these mysterious incidents.
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Increased Radar Sensitivity
- The U.S. military has adjusted radar systems to be more sensitive.
- This change has led to the detection of more objects, similar to checking your email's junk folder.
Terminology and Assessment
- The U.S. government is calling the recently downed aerial objects "objects" rather than "balloons."
- They are still assessing the objects' capabilities and potential threats.
Espionage Accusations
- China accused the U.S. of flying balloons over their airspace without permission.
- The U.S. denied these accusations, highlighting the ongoing espionage between the two countries.