- Polish researchers identify ships as likely sources of GPS jamming in the Baltic Sea.
- Study recorded 84 hours of GNSS interference over six months, with October experiencing the highest disruptions.
- Findings suggest high-power jamming devices may be mounted on vessels, raising security concerns.
A recent study by Polish researchers has revealed that GPS disruptions in the Baltic Sea are more likely caused by moving vessels rather than land-based sources. The findings suggest that powerful jamming devices could be mounted on ships, aligning with previous reports of high-power radio equipment aboard vessels linked to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet.”
Monitoring GNSS Interference
Conducted by GPSPATRON and Gdynia Maritime University, the study involved monitoring Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) interference using a specialized sensor installed at the university’s Faculty of Navigation. Situated 120 kilometers from Kaliningrad, the sensor detected disruptions up to 20 nautical miles offshore but did not register interference in the central Baltic, where maritime traffic is densest.
Over six months, from June to November 2024, researchers recorded a total of 84 hours of GNSS interference, with October alone accounting for 29 hours. Some jamming events persisted for up to seven hours, leading to navigation errors of up to 35 meters (100 feet), posing significant risks in confined waterways.
Shifting Jamming Patterns Strengthen Ship-Based Theory
Initially, the interference affected multiple satellite systems, including GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, and Galileo. However, from October onwards, researchers observed changes in jamming patterns, further reinforcing the hypothesis that ships, rather than fixed land-based stations, were responsible for the disruptions.
Since the interference was detected at ground level but did not align with airborne GPS disruption reports from ADS-B tracking systems, experts emphasize the need for dedicated ground-based monitoring networks. Such systems could enable authorities to pinpoint jamming sources, identify the vessels involved, and take necessary enforcement actions.
Urgent Need for Real-Time Monitoring and Security Measures
The study warns that persistent GNSS interference could severely impact maritime navigation, port operations, and overall security in the Baltic region. Researchers stress the urgent need for real-time monitoring systems to counter these threats and prevent potential maritime accidents caused by GPS failures. Strengthening enforcement and surveillance measures will be crucial in safeguarding maritime operations from the growing risks associated with GNSS jamming.
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Reference: Marine Insight
