The talk of UFOs (or UAPs) is not a recruitment tactic but more about diverting peoples attention away from the truth. This diversion tactic have spawned a whole sub-culture much to the surprise of the Pentagon I bet.

Unfortunately, there have been disastrous effects on some. Look up people such as Richard Doty where his actions lead people like Paul Bennewitz to insanity.
On the flip side, it have spawned interest in all things Space such as exploration which I'm hoping China continues to be very active in after this Cold War ends. What's funny is that it also created an environment for cooperation which goes against the war industry. Peace on Earth means no war resulting in no profit. However, it's going to be really difficult to change everyone's perception as this UFO lie have been drilled into everyone psyche for over two generations. This UFO subculture have created a lot of fanatics who would angrily dismiss the truth as another government coverup.

It also doesn't help when the Scientific community continue to push the lie for more funding.
Interestingly, I'm seeing a change in tactics as the geopolitical situation have changed. People like Neil deGrasse Tyson and Nick Pope have been dropping hints that not all UFOs seen are extra-terrestrial in origin. It'll start off with alternative "news" sources, and then finish off with the big names of MSM like CNN. And it appears the change in tactic is being pursued as this
. Once the truth is accepted by the majority, I'm expecting a big push to further militarize Space and maybe even renege on some treaty like the Outer Space Treaty. In the future, you're going to see a lot of propaganda against China, Iran, Russia and others.