Relevance: GS-3 (Internal Security, Aviation Safety) | Source: The Indian Express
Multiple airports including Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Chennai reported GPS spoofing and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) interference, affecting aircraft navigation. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has sought help from the Wireless Monitoring Organisation to trace the source of interference.
What Is GPS Spoofing?
GPS spoofing occurs when false satellite-like signals are transmitted to an aircraft or device, misleading it about its real position.
It may cause:
- Wrong navigation coordinates
- Misaligned flight paths
- Overpowered satellite signals due to radio interference
It is different from jamming, which blocks signals; spoofing feeds fake signals.
Threats & Fixes
Threat / Risk | Fix / Policy Response |
| Incorrect aircraft navigation | DGCA advisory + real-time monitoring by Airports Authority of India |
| Possible safety hazard during landing | Use of conventional navigation aids (ILS/VOR) as fallback |
| Signal interference near airports | Wireless Monitoring Organisation tracking source of spoofing |
| Global rise in GPS manipulation | Stronger cybersecurity measures under DGCA & AAI |
Q. With reference to GPS spoofing, consider the following statements:
- It involves transmitting fake signals to mislead a GPS-enabled system.
- It is the same as GPS jamming.
- Such interference can threaten aviation safety.
Which of the above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
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