GPS Interference – Eastern/Central Mediterranean Sea and Suez Canal
The United States Maritime Administration (MARAD) has issued revised Advisory 2019-013, which replaces 2019-005 and advises as follows; Multiple instances of significant GPS interference have been reported by vessels operating in the Eastern and Central Mediterranean Sea.
In the Central Mediterranean Sea, these reports have been concentrated between Libya and Malta, specifically in areas offshore of Libya and to the east and the northwest of Malta. In the Eastern Mediterranean, these reports have been concentrated near Port Said, Egypt, the Suez Canal, and in the vicinity of the Republic of Cyprus. Instances of similar interference were also reported between Hadera, Israel and Beirut, Lebanon. This interference is resulting in lost GPS signals affecting bridge navigation, GPS-based timing and communications equipment. Satellite communications equipment may also be impacted. Exercise caution when transiting these areas.
Instances of GPS interference may be reported to NATO. Please report the following:
- DTG (Date Time Group)/ Unit LAT/LONG position at reporting time
- Track while observing interferences/ From LAT/LONG to LAT/LONG
- Duration while observing interferences – start and end time
- Interference type (systems affected and how?)
- Assessed direction or coverage area of interference
- Navigation – secondary modes of navigation usage and accuracy vs GPS systems
- Communications systems affected
- Overall assessment of observations – provide free text comment on the event and any additional information that is considered interesting
ELECTRONIC INTERFERENCES ASSESMENT.pdf
For further information regarding security concerns and procedures, please direct all questions to security@liscr.com
The information above has been provided by The Liberian Registry and issued on behalf of the Deputy Commissioner of Maritime Affairs Republic of Liberia.
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