Protecting Global Navigation Satellite Systems: A Joint Call to Action

Aviation, maritime, and telecom agencies are sounding the alarm over the increasing incidents of jamming and spoofing of satellite navigation systems. This interference poses a significant threat to the safety and efficiency of critical operations that rely on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS).

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) have issued a joint statement expressing “grave concern” over the rising cases of harmful interference with GNSS.

These interference incidents, in the form of jamming and spoofing, disrupt the operation of GNSS in the frequency bands allocated to the Radio Navigation Satellite Service (RNSS).

The joint statement outlines five key actions that Member States need to take urgently:

• Protection of RNSS from harmful interference affecting civilian and humanitarian operations.
• Strengthening resilience of RNSS-dependent navigation, positioning, and timing systems.
• Maintaining conventional navigation infrastructure for contingency support.
• Enhancing collaboration between regulatory, aviation, maritime, defense, and enforcement authorities.
• Implementing comprehensive interference reporting mechanisms.

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez emphasized the critical importance of protecting GNSS for the safety of seafarers and shipping activities. Interference with GNSS could lead to collisions and grounding, posing serious risks to maritime operations.

Ships and ports rely heavily on GNSS for navigation, communication, and safety applications, including the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).

Regulatory frameworks such as SOLAS mandate the use of GNSS or other navigation systems on all ships to ensure continuous positioning and update of the ship’s location during voyages.

ICAO Secretary-General Juan Carlos Salazar highlighted the broader impact of GNSS interference on aircraft operations, stressing the need for collaborative efforts to protect these critical systems.

ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin underscored the vital role of GNSS in ensuring safety on land, at sea, and in the air, urging Member States to safeguard the uninterrupted operation of these systems.

In conclusion, the protection of Global Navigation Satellite Systems is paramount for the safety and efficiency of aviation, maritime, and telecom operations. Member States must take immediate action to address the growing threat of interference and uphold the integrity of GNSS for the benefit of all.

Press Release