Finland’s Airports Bordering Russia Switch to 1960s-Era Navigation amid GPS Interference
The Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom has reported that several airports in Finland, which operate near the Russian border, have switched to backup navigation systems due to disruptions with the Global Positioning System (GPS).
The agency stated that the interference with GPS signals began on March 24, 2023, and has affected airports in the eastern and southeastern regions of the country, including Lappeenranta, Joensuu, and Kuopio.
To ensure the safety of air traffic, these airports have transitioned to the Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) and Non-Directional Beacon (NDB) navigation systems, which were widely used before the advent of GPS.
Reason for the GPS Interference
Traficom is currently investigating the cause of the GPS interference, which is believed to be related to electronic warfare activities along the Russia-Ukraine border.
Russia has been known to use electronic warfare tactics to disrupt communications and navigation systems in the region, particularly in areas close to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The agency has not yet identified the source of the interference, but it is coordinating with international organizations and authorities to determine the cause and find a solution.
Impact on Air Traffic
While the switch to backup navigation systems has allowed airports to continue operating, it has resulted in some delays and disruptions to air traffic.
DME and NDB systems are less accurate and reliable than GPS, requiring pilots to rely on more traditional navigation techniques.
Traficom has advised pilots to exercise caution when operating in the affected areas and to be prepared for potential delays and diversions.
Long-Term Solution
Traficom is working on a long-term solution to mitigate the impact of GPS interference on air traffic in the region.
The agency is exploring the possibility of implementing more resilient navigation systems that are less susceptible to electronic warfare.
Traficom is also coordinating with international organizations to develop standardized protocols for responding to GPS interference incidents.
Conclusion
The disruption of GPS signals near Finland’s border with Russia highlights the growing threat of electronic warfare to critical infrastructure. It is a reminder that modern navigation systems, which rely heavily on GPS, are not immune to interference and disruption.
The Finnish authorities’ swift response to the GPS interference and their efforts to implement backup navigation systems have ensured the continued safety of air traffic in the affected regions.
However, the incident underscores the need for governments and aviation authorities worldwide to develop comprehensive strategies to mitigate the risks posed by electronic warfare and to ensure the resilience of critical navigation systems.
