Advanced Navigation is a provider of inertial navigation systems (INS) that use artificial neural network (ANN) technology, offering enhanced spoofing detection and assured positioning, navigation, and timing (A-PNT) backup.
In recent times, there has been a significant increase in GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) spoofing incidents, largely driven by electronic warfare in conflict areas. The issue of signal spoofing has been gaining traction and is expected to dominate conversations within the PNT and GNSS communities. Read more >>
GNSS spoofing occurs when a fake radio signal overrides an authentic GNSS satellite signal, providing the receiver with false location data. This has been identified as an escalating concern for pilots worldwide, as well as for drones and maritime vessels.
The recent surge in spoofing incidents has been linked to electronic warfare in contested zones. Additionally, there have been increasing attempts to mislead maritime vessels, steering them off course and into restricted waters.
The spotlight on spoofing is intensifying as the European Commission launches two new Galileo navigation satellites via SpaceX rockets, with two more planned for 2024.
The Galileo system is reportedly set to become the first GNSS constellation to include a complete system for verifying signal authenticity, enhancing defense against spoofing. However, due to the lengthy certification processes required to integrate new technologies into aircraft, it may take 8-12 years before this is fully realized.
A Growing Threat to GNSS-Dependent Sectors
The threat of GNSS spoofing is now making its way into mainstream news, with ordinary citizens also feeling the effects. For example, in an ongoing regional conflict, false directional information was transmitted via a GNSS-based navigation app.
The implications go beyond aviation and navigation apps. What is currently being felt in these sectors will inevitably spread to other GNSS-reliant industries as the sophistication of electronic and cyber warfare grows and the cost and complexity of conducting spoofing decrease. This shift makes it certain that critical industries will experience disruption, not just a possibility.
Many key sectors rely on GNSS, from shipping ports to financial services and emergency response systems. It is crucial to expand the conversation and develop practical solutions beyond the current focus of industry discussions.
New Technologies Offer Solutions
Fortunately, technologies to combat this emerging threat are already available. Critical sectors can implement protective measures to guard against spoofing. A multi-layered defense strategy can be employed to mitigate this risk.
Certus Evo Inertial Navigation System by Advanced Navigation
Industries should adopt a multi-GNSS approach, combined with advanced receiver autonomous integrity monitoring (RAIM) and fault detection and exclusion (FDE) techniques, to improve positioning accuracy.
Additionally, integrating modern inertial navigation systems (INS) with advanced integrity monitoring capabilities is essential for detecting and countering spoofing. INS systems that use ANN offer substantial improvements in spoofing detection and A-PNT backup compared to older systems based on traditional Kalman filtering.
It is crucial for private industry to take the initiative in reducing the impact of GNSS spoofing by quickly evaluating and deploying systems that can address this growing challenge.
The Role of Regulatory Bodies
Regulatory agencies must work closely with the private sector to establish guidelines that support the rapid adoption of new technologies. Streamlining certification processes—without compromising safety standards—will ensure that equipment remains at the forefront of defending against the constantly evolving threat landscape.
As we confront the challenges of a world where technology is both an asset and a potential risk, our collective awareness and proactive steps will be crucial in safeguarding critical sectors from the rising threat of spoofing.
