The Pentagon’s UFO chief will step down next month after saying that several reported sightings of objects flying through the sky over the US are either the work of foreign nations or aliens, warning that the latter would be the preferred scenario.
Sean Kirkpatrick, head of the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO), announced his plans to leave last week after heading the department for 18 months, a job he deferred his retirement for in hopes of finding evidence of extraterrestrials.
After investigating more than 800 cases during his brief stint as director, Kirkpatrick warned of the presence of UFOs, and although there has yet to be any hard evidence of aliens, he said the alternative was much more frightening.
“If we don’t prove it’s aliens, then what we’re finding is evidence of other people doing stuff in our backyard,” he told
Despite being open to the idea of aliens among us, Kirkpatrick testified before congress that there was “no credible evidence thus far of extraterrestrial activity” or “off-world technology.”
He criticized Grusch’s claims as “extremely unethical and immoral,” noting that the whistleblower refused multiple requests to speak with the AARO.
The Department of Defense touted Kirkpatrick’s leadership, crediting him with creating its first public-facing website to bring more transparency to the AARO’s work.
“His commitment to transparency with the United States Congress and the American public on UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) leaves a legacy the department will carry forward as AARO continues its mission,” the Department of Defense said in a statement.
“Our department is stronger and better prepared for future scientific and national security challenges because of Sean’s distinguished service to our country.”
Tim Phillips, Kirkpatrick’s deputy, will lead the office until the Pentagon names a new chief.
