Insurers warn of rising risks
Ships face growing threats as disruptions to global navigation systems force insurers and vessel operators to implement secondary solutions. Incidents involving GNSS jamming and spoofing, where false signals mislead ships about their positions, have increased along key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, Bab Al Mandab, and the Baltic Sea. These interferences now endanger international trade flows, compelling merchant vessels to traverse high-risk zones despite the hazards.
Attacks on satellite navigation have intensified, overwhelming the systems ships depend on for positioning. The Strait of Hormuz and Bab Al Mandab led in reported cases over the first six months of this year, though interference is also climbing in the Black Sea, Mediterranean, and waters off South America. One master mariner observed that while geopolitical tensions have rerouted some traffic, vessels must still pass through these areas, heightening their exposure to navigation failures.
The limitations of GNSS have driven demand for alternatives like enhanced Long Range Navigation (eLoran), which uses ground-based radio transmitters rather than satellites. Unlike GPS, eLoran signals resist jamming and spoofing, delivering accuracy within eight to ten meters. The technology already supports critical infrastructure, including power grids and military operations, and has a documented history of reliability.
In 2023, the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency proposed requiring eLoran installations on ships, citing its role as a dependable backup to satellite navigation. The UK has committed £155 million to developing its own eLoran network, designed to operate independently of GNSS and include real-time monitoring for interference. However, full adoption hinges on ships installing the necessary equipment.
Insurance providers are also adjusting their approaches. P&I Club NorthStandard recently collaborated with SGM Technology to integrate the PntGuard platform, which verifies ship positions using encrypted signals from low-Earth orbit satellites. Unlike standard GPS, PntGuard’s signal strength is nearly a thousand times greater, making it highly resistant to jamming. The system issues immediate alerts when GNSS fails, safeguarding crews and preventing costly route deviations.
Alexander Wiik, SGM Technology’s Chief Commercial Officer, stated that GNSS interference is no longer confined to conflict zones. Spoofing and jamming now affect global shipping lanes, sending vessels off course and endangering lives. The repercussions stretch beyond safety, impacting revenue, regulatory compliance, and insurance claims. By comparing GNSS data with authenticated signals, PntGuard helps operators retain control over their vessels even when primary navigation systems collapse.
