Algeria: Military Tracks UFOs Near Installations, US Embassy Inquires
US Embassy report from Algiers (March 7, 1975) to Secretary of State Henry Kissinger: 'machines' have been seen near military installations since January — nearly two months. Objects tracked visually and on radar by Algerian military, with multiple witnesses. Described as very bright, maneuverable, capable of landing and taking off. Algerian military inquired with US embassy, which 'categorically' denied any US objects in Algerian airspace. Sightings coincided with expected balloon flight of publisher Malcolm Forbes (aborted). No State Department answers released.
Background
1. In early 1975, the Algerian military observed and tracked unidentified aerial objects near military installations. These objects were described as bright and maneuverable. The US Embassy in Algiers was contacted by the Algerian military regarding these sightings, leading to an inquiry with the US Secretary of State.
The Incident
Since January 1975, unidentified "machines" were observed near Algerian military installations. The Algerian military tracked these objects visually and on radar. Multiple witnesses reported the sightings. The objects were described as very bright and maneuverable, and were seen to land and take off.
Investigation
The Algerian military inquired with the US Embassy in Algiers about the sightings. The embassy assured the Algerian military that no US objects would be flying in Algerian airspace without explicit permission. The US Embassy then contacted Secretary of State Henry Kissinger to obtain a straight answer regarding the events. The sightings coincided with the expected arrival of American journalists covering a balloon flight by Malcolm Forbes, which was ultimately aborted.
Significance
This event highlights a military encounter with unidentified aerial objects and the subsequent diplomatic communication between Algeria and the United States. The US Embassy's inquiry with the Secretary of State suggests a level of concern and uncertainty regarding the nature and origin of the observed objects. The lack of released answers from the State Department contributes to the mystery surrounding these sightings.