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GPS Disruptions at Lower Altitudes Close to Norway's Border to Russia
GPS disruptions from Russia operate lower than previous measurements have shown.
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There have been daily GPS disturbances in the airspace over East Finnmark in the Norwegian Arctic for a long time. The Norwegian Communications Authority (Nkom) continuously monitors the situation with its measurement stationed in the area.
"Since March, Nkom has also conducted several measurements in the air and on the ground, together with the Finnmark police. The analyses now show GNSS disturbances (jamming/noise and spoofing/false signals. Ed. note) down to 2000 feet, around 600 meters over the Varanger Peninsula, says department director at Nkom, Espen Slette in a press release.
This is lower altitudes than previously recorded in this area. Preliminary analyses show that the disturbances still originate from Russia.
Use map and compass
"We continuously measure the area and will continue to closely monitor the situation. We have also been in contact with other relevant authorities and shared the findings", says Slette.
"Everyone who uses GPS should be able to trust the information they receive. That these signals are manipulated is unacceptable. If you are going on a trip near the border, we warn against blindly trusting the GPS equipment. Bring a map and compass as well", says duty chief of staff Stein Kristian Hansen in the Finnmark police district.
Will continue to document the extent of the disruptions
He further states that they are constantly testing systems at ground level that rely on GPS positioning, and will notify if they detect deviations.
Escalating the issue
The police and Nkom are closely monitoring the situation and will escalate the issue internationally.
"We will continue to document the extent of the disturbances. We are also considering bringing the issue to relevant international forums, including a complaint to the International Telecommunication Union at the UN, says Espen Slette at Nkom.
There are almost daily, serious disturbances and manipulation of GPS signals in East Finnmark and the Barents Sea, especially targeting aviation. The disturbances are linked to Russian activity and create significant challenges for navigation and safety.
