The growing threat of GNSS interference and its strategic importance for Italy

Satellite navigation systems (GNSS) are a fundamental pillar for the European economy, contributing 10% of the community's GDP. However, these systems are increasingly becoming targets of malicious interference, with particularly serious consequences for the maritime sector, vital for Italy.

Economic and strategic impact

According to Eurostat data from 2024, the ports of the European Union handled approximately 3.4 billion tonnes of goods, with Italy ranking second in terms of goods traffic volume and third in the number of containers handled. The 2026 SRM report confirms the steady growth of Italian maritime trade, with investments exceeding 13 billion euros in the sector.

The security of satellite navigation systems is therefore crucial for the protection of port infrastructures and the maritime commercial sector, as highlighted in the annual report of the DIS.

GNSS interference techniques

GNSS systems, which include GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, and Beidou, provide positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) data. The main interference techniques are:

  • GNSS Spoofing: broadcasting fake signals that can deceive receiving systems. Techniques include:
    • Carry-off: the fake signal is transmitted along with the real one with increasing intensity
    • Meaconing: the signal is intercepted and retransmitted with a delay
  • GNSS Jamming: disrupting signal frequencies through powerful emissions on the same frequency band as satellite transmissions

Areas of greatest vulnerability

GNSS interference is particularly frequent in areas of high strategic sensitivity:

  • Baltic
  • Black Sea
  • Southern and Eastern Mediterranean
  • Middle East
  • Arctic

In these areas, the spillover effect of electronic warfare is particularly evident, with military systems creating interference zones that affect both military and civilian users.

Impact on the maritime sector

The dependence on GNSS systems in the maritime sector goes beyond simple navigation:

  • Powering navigation systems
  • AIS systems
  • Route control
  • Time synchronization

The consequences of interference can include:

  • Navigation errors
  • Operational delays
  • Increased costs
  • Dangers to crews and passengers
  • Difficulties in managing emergencies

The European response

The European Union is adopting a broader resilience strategy regarding GNSS interference, with particular attention to the aviation sector:

  • Updating communication procedures between pilots and air traffic control
  • Greater integration of electronic flight instruments
  • New operational and training requirements
  • Guidelines to ensure adequate capacity of control services

The European Commission is also developing technological solutions such as the Open Service Navigation Message Authentication (OSNMA) for Galileo, which adds a digital signature to navigation messages.

The situation in Italy

Italy plays a crucial role in the Galileo program and in projects dedicated to the resilience of satellite signals. The country's strategic position in the Mediterranean and the importance of its maritime sector make the protection of GNSS systems a national priority.

The protection of critical underwater and port infrastructures is closely linked to the security of satellite signals, with the risk that malicious interference could compromise the safety and efficiency of maritime trade.

Conclusions

GNSS interference represents a growing threat to satellite navigation systems, with particularly serious consequences for the maritime sector. Given its strategic position and the importance of its maritime sector, Italy must adopt adequate measures to protect these critical systems.

The European response, which goes beyond mere emergency management to adopt a broader resilience strategy, represents a model that Italy could follow to protect its critical infrastructures.

The economic impact of GNSS interference

Interference with satellite navigation systems not only poses an operational threat but also has significant economic repercussions. According to a recent study by the European Space Agency, each hour of GNSS service disruption causes estimated losses between 500,000 and 1 million euros in the European maritime sector. For Italy, where port traffic represents 14.6% of the continental goods flow, the consequences could be particularly severe.

Shipping companies face additional costs for managing emergencies, route changes, and potential damage to goods. Furthermore, maritime insurers may increase premiums for ships operating in high-risk areas of interference, further increasing operating costs for companies.

New protection technologies

In addition to OSNMA for Galileo, the European Union is exploring other technological solutions to improve the resilience of GNSS systems. Among these, autonomous interference detection systems based on artificial intelligence, which can quickly identify and report anomalies in satellite signals.

Italy is developing, in collaboration with ESA, a pilot project for the installation of advanced monitoring stations along the main maritime routes. These stations, equipped with high-precision sensors, could provide real-time data on the conditions of GNSS signals, enabling more timely interventions.

Training of maritime operators

A crucial aspect of the resilience strategy is the training of maritime personnel. The Port Authority of Genoa has launched a mandatory training program for captains and navigation officers, focused on procedures to be adopted in case of GNSS interference. The course includes emergency simulations and the use of alternative navigation tools.

The Italian Navy is collaborating with leading nautical universities to develop advanced training modules, which could be integrated into degree programs in naval engineering and maritime sciences.

Legal and regulatory challenges

The complex legal situation of GNSS interference techniques represents a significant challenge. While some may be considered legitimate military tactics, others could violate international humanitarian law. Italy is working with European partners to develop a common position on this issue.

A recent proposal suggests the creation of an international task force dedicated to combating illegal interference with GNSS systems, with investigative and sanctioning powers against those responsible.

The future of maritime transport

As threats evolve, so do advanced technological solutions. Researchers are exploring the use of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations to provide navigation signals more resistant to interference. These technologies could represent the future of safe maritime transport.

Italy, with its strategic position and expertise in the space sector, is well positioned to lead this transition towards more resilient navigation systems. Collaboration between industry, academia, and institutions will be crucial to addressing this complex challenge and protecting a vital economic sector.

Conclusions

Protecting GNSS systems requires a multifaceted approach that combines advanced technology, specialized training, and international collaboration. Italy, with its central role in the Galileo program and its strategic importance in the Mediterranean, is called upon to play a leading role in this global challenge.

As threats continue to evolve, technological innovation and international cooperation offer tools to address this challenge and ensure the safety of maritime transport, a fundamental pillar of the European economy.

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