The report is part of the US government’s broader public examination of UFOs, or “unidentified anomalous phenomena,” which has included Congress hearings and open discussions with US space agency NASA officials.
Despite these findings, US officials acknowledged that the public’s perception of alien visits may not be dispelled. The report noted that the proliferation of television programs, books, movies, and internet and social media content focused on UAP-related topics has likely influenced the public conversation and reinforced beliefs within some sections of the population.
Researchers highlighted a persistent belief among some individuals that the government has conducted secret alien research and withheld information about reverse-engineering extraterrestrial technology. The report identified a group of individuals who perpetuate this narrative without evidence and emphasized the incorrect allegation of circular reporting and government concealment from Congress.
The report also attributed mistaken identifications of new space, rocket, and air systems, including stealth technologies and drones, to contribute to UFO sightings since the 1940s. The investigation by AARO included interviews with thirty people, an examination of both classified and unclassified records, and a review of all government UAP investigations dating back to 1945.
Major General Pat Ryder, Pentagon Press Secretary, stated, “AARO assesses that all of the named and described alleged hidden UAP reverse-engineering programs provided by interviewees either do not exist; are misidentified authentic national security programs that are not related to extraterrestrial technology exploitation; or resolve to a disestablished program.”