Researchers identify Russian satellites causing GNSS interference
Original: Tracing a powerful GNSS interference source over Europe
Why This Matters
Space-based GNSS interference represents qualitative escalation in navigation threats
Study traces widespread GNSS interference across Europe, Greenland, and Canada since 2019 to Russian early warning satellites in Molniya orbits. Researchers analyzed data from terrestrial reference stations to develop detection framework and confidently identify space-based interference source.
Researchers from the University of Texas have identified Russian early warning satellites in Molniya orbits as the source of powerful GNSS interference events affecting Europe, Greenland, and Canada since 2019. The study, submitted to the Institute of Navigation journal, analyzed data from terrestrial GNSS reference stations collected between 2019 and 2026. The team developed a received-power-based detection framework and combined it with time-difference-of-arrival measurements to trace the interference source. The research highlights growing concerns about space-based GNSS interference, which poses greater risks than terrestrial sources due to vast geographic reach and potential for widespread disruption of navigation systems.