Pentagon Releases 162 Declassified UFO Files Online: How to Access Them

The Pentagon has made 162 declassified UFO files available to the public online, marking a significant step toward transparency on Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP). The release includes videos, photos, and original source documents from across the U.S. government, accessible without clearance.

The files, many of which were previously classified for decades, are now accessible under a new tab on the Department of Defense’s website. This move follows a presidential order issued in February, which emphasized the need for greater transparency regarding UAP.

The Pentagon stated in a post on X:

"The American people can now access the federal government’s declassified UAP files instantly. The latest UAP videos, photos, and original source documents from across the entire United States government are all in one place — no clearance required."

The Pentagon also criticized past administrations for keeping the documents secret, stating:

"While past administrations sought to discredit or dissuade the American people, President Trump is focused on providing maximum transparency to the public, who can ultimately make up their own minds about the information contained in these files."

New files will be added to the database on a rolling basis, according to the Pentagon.

Public interest in UFOs and UAP has surged in recent years, partly due to social media and the release of documentary films on the subject. A 2025 survey found that 56% of Americans believe in the existence of aliens, while 47% think they have likely visited Earth—up from 36% in 2012.

The newly released files include photographs, eyewitness reports, and unresolved cases where the government could not determine the nature of observed phenomena. One file features a transcript from Apollo 17, where astronauts discuss "bright particles" or fragments, alongside alleged sightings dating back to the 1950s.

Experts Urge Caution on UFO Claims

Despite public excitement, experts advise tempering expectations. Sean Kirkpatrick, former director of the Pentagon’s All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) until 2023, reviewed the documents and told AP News that they do not provide evidence of extraterrestrial life.

"Readers should not get their hopes up that there’s going to be some document with photos, interviewing the aliens when they came down. Because that just doesn’t exist."