The key role of GNSS simulators in preventing jamming of critical positioning systems

Replicating realistic jamming situations to minimize risks

GNSS simulators, such as Safran Electronics & Defense's Skydel, offer the ability to digitally replicate realistic jamming and spoofing scenarios. These are real-life situations that can be encountered in both military and civilian environments.

These simulators provide an in-depth assessment of the responsiveness of such systems under various conditions, from partial degradation to total signal loss and/or deception.

For example, they deal with multipath scenarios, a signal diffraction that makes the exact position of a craft difficult to determine.

Testing for successful military missions

Thanks to these tests, GNSS simulators can detect potential vulnerabilities and assess the system's ability to adapt and resist to hostile jamming and spoofing tactics that may affect the navigation, time synchronization and positioning of a vehicle or aircraft.

This proactive approach enables developers, engineers and manufacturers to improve the robustness of their systems, securing mission success, protecting military staff and providing a tactical advantage on the battlefield. In the latter respect, GNSS simulators play an important role in achieving interoperability between coalition partners.

A must-have technology

The challenges associated with jamming, GNSS spoofing and multipath signals make GNSS simulators a must. With their ability to faithfully recreate real-life situations, they help to design systems that are both durable and reliable.