Global maritime security risks rise with GNSS use

Subject

The maritime security of global navigation satellite systems.

Significance

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSSs) are critical to the safe and efficient operation of maritime transport, yet civilian GNSSs have little security. This has been highlighted most recently during tensions over ships passing the Strait of Hormuz, in which Iran allegedly tampered with GNSS signals to seize vessels.

Impacts

• EU-based operators will have the advantage of access to the Galileo protected modes when launched.
• Developers of future GNSSs will face calls to include civilian secure modes.
• Secure civilian modes have cost implications for the shipping sector.