GPS Jamming: Situation in Israel and Gaza

This article reviews GPS jamming, focusing on how it is done, why it is used, and the situation in Israel and Gaza.

What is GPS Jamming and How is it Done?

GPS jamming refers to the deliberate interference with Global Positioning System (GPS) signals to disrupt the functioning of GPS receivers. It is typically done using devices called ‘jammers’ that transmit radio signals on the same frequencies used by GPS.

The most common ways GPS jamming is done are:

• Noise Jamming: The jammer transmits random noise signals to mask the actual GPS signals. This requires high power but is easy to implement.
• Swept Jamming: The jammer rapidly sweeps a narrowband signal over the entire GPS band. This is more efficient than noise jamming.
• Spot Jamming: The jammer transmits on specific GPS frequencies to block signals from certain satellites.
• Protocol Jamming: The jammer sends spoofed GPS signals with incorrect data to confuse receivers.

GPS jammers are usually small portable devices that can be easily concealed and activated when needed. They have an effective range of 5-10 meters for disrupting GPS receivers.

Why is GPS Jamming Used?

Some reasons GPS jamming is used:

• Military Usage: To deny the enemy access to GPS for navigation and targeting.
• Privacy: To prevent tracking of individuals or vehicles by GPS.
• Disruption: Criminals use jammers to block GPS tracking of stolen goods.
• Testing: Controlled jamming tests the resilience of GPS systems.
• Unintentional: Faulty equipment or signals from other devices can unintentionally interfere with GPS.

GPS Jamming in Israel and Gaza

• Israel has ramped up GPS jamming to counter drone attacks by Hamas and Hezbollah.
• This jamming affects flights to Israel’s Ben Gurion airport which have to take longer routes.
• Israel has developed specialized anti-jamming technology like GPSdome to overcome jamming.
• Most civilian jammers only affect the GPS L1 frequency used for navigation.
• In the past, jamming in Israel was attributed to high-power Russian jammers in Syria.
• Currently, the Gaza strip seems relatively free of interference according to jamming maps.

Summary

GPS jamming is done using purpose-built devices that transmit interfering signals to disrupt GPS receivers. It has both intentional and unintentional causes, with implications for military operations, transportation, privacy and more. Israel employs GPS jamming for security while developing countermeasures, impacting aviation and infrastructure.