Published On: May 22, 2026

On May 22, 2026, the US Department of War published the second tranche of declassified records as part of the Presidential Unsealing and Reporting System for UAP Encounters (PURSUE). This follows the first release on May 8, 2026, and adds dozens of videos, documents, and other materials related to Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP), the official term for what were previously known as UFOs. The latest batch includes videos captured by military sensors, such as infrared footage showing objects over water. One widely circulated clip, shared on X by the account @remarks, displays grainy infrared imagery of several elongated dark shapes near the ocean surface, creating visible wakes. A smaller object moves rapidly across the frame from the side. Official records describe similar footage as originating from US military platforms in operational areas, with no conclusive identification provided for many cases. The PURSUE program, directed by President Donald Trump, aims to increase transparency by releasing reviewed historical and recent UAP-related materials on war.gov/UFO.

The All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) and partner agencies have reviewed thousands of UAP reports. The majority are attributed to conventional explanations such as aircraft, drones, balloons, birds, or environmental conditions. A small subset remains unresolved due to insufficient data or unusual observed characteristics. The infrared ocean footage in the second release, including the clip highlighted on social media, aligns with patterns often explained as surface vessels like boats or low-flying aircraft. Military sensors frequently produce low-resolution black-and-white imagery, especially from older systems. No official reports in the releases have presented evidence of extraterrestrial technology. The Department of War has stated that these disclosures support public understanding while protecting sensitive operational information. This rolling release process reflects ongoing efforts to balance national security with public interest in unexplained phenomena.

The second batch, particularly the ocean video shared by @remarks, generated substantial discussion across X, Instagram, and other platforms. Many users identified the objects as boats based on wake patterns and movement, with the smaller object described as a possible low-flying helicopter or aircraft. Comments expressed frustration over the continued use of grainy footage in 2026 and references to other government priorities, such as the Epstein files. Skepticism was prominent, though some called for higher-resolution releases and further transparency.

These disclosures underscore the value of systematic data collection and scientific scrutiny in evaluating unexplained sightings. Greater transparency can help separate verifiable facts from speculation.

This article draws from official US Department of War releases and established reporting. The Pentagon has not attributed any released UAP materials to extraterrestrial origins. For primary sources, refer to war.gov/UFO. All interpretations are based on publicly available information.

Credits

Materials sourced from the US Department of War PURSUE releases. Video example shared by @remarks on X.

Comment your thoughts below. What do you make of the latest UAP file releases, and what level of transparency do you expect from the government?👇