Air Intelligence Information Report — 16 December 1953 Sighting

On 16 December 1953, at 1754Z, personnel from Detachment 2 of the 737th AC&W Squadron observed unidentified radar returns in the Mediterranean area. The objects, numbering between one and twelve, were detected by a TPS-1D ground radar at a range of 20 to 40 miles from the station. The returns were described as stationary and arranged in a straight line, with the shape of the formation varying between 'V', 'M', and 'W' configurations. The observation lasted for several minutes before the targets faded from the scope. The height finder was reported as being out of service during the incident. Weather conditions at the time were overcast with 9/10 cloud cover, an estimated ceiling of 8,000 feet, and five miles of visibility, with no rain or thunderstorms reported. Following the incident, the 316th Air Division (Defense) conducted an intelligence assessment. Electronics personnel within the division evaluated the data and concluded that the radar returns were likely attributable to one of three causes: anomalous propagation, ship-borne radar jamming, or a flock of geese or storks in flight. The report notes that while radar maintenance personnel at the site could not identify a specific cause, the division's official position remained that the phenomenon was likely a result of one of the aforementioned environmental or technical factors. The report was prepared by Major Edward O. Wittman and approved by Lt. Col. Frank H. Rhoads.