UFO files spanning decades are released by Defense Department

NPR reports that the Defense Department released classified files on unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs) spanning decades, including Cold War-era sightings of rotating saucers and recent reports of metallic elliptical objects, with more documents promised on a rolling basis. The article is sourced from NPR, a major national outlet with bylined reporting from Bill Chappell, and uses straightforward, factual language without sensationalism. Independent corroboration from NBC News, The New York Times, CBS News, and Al Jazeera confirms the release occurred, with additional context that President Trump ordered the declassification in February and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the public should "see it for themselves"—though the New York Times notes initial files contain "murky images that show what could be anything," and Al Jazeera reports critics claim the release may serve as distraction. Watch for the rolling release of additional documents and public/scientific analysis of the materials, as well as any congressional or regulatory responses to the disclosure.