The global navigation system GPS, controlled by the United States government, may be unavailable in Russia under certain scenarios. Readers may wonder how location data still appears on maps in smartphones, tablets, and vehicle navigation systems. This discussion, presented in depth by the longstanding automotive magazine
“Behind the Wheel”,
examines the current and potential future state of satellite-based positioning in Russia.
Could GPS be shut off?
According to discussions within the Russian space agency, Roskosmos, such a possibility is on the table for consideration by the United States government as part of sanctions or other political actions.
Rogozin noted that today, as part of sanctions, the United States is examining options to cut the Russian Federation off from GPS navigation. He asked readers whether they are aware of this potential move and stated that it is being evaluated, highlighting the seriousness of the issue. (Source: Roskosmos, official statements)
Is it technically feasible to disable GPS regionally?
Satellites that form the backbone of navigation operate by sending signals from space to Earth over wide areas. If a satellite constellation passes over a country, it can, in theory, alter the data received by devices in that region, leading to inaccuracies in location readings. However, such interference would also affect neighboring territories that receive distorted signals, potentially rendering GPS unreliable in a broad area.
Is a shutdown dangerous for Russia’s navigation capabilities?
There are alternative global satellite navigation systems beyond the American GPS. In northern latitudes, GPS accuracy may be outperformed by Russia’s GLONASS system, which improves positioning reliability for northern regions. The presence of GLONASS can counterbalance any potential disruption to GPS, preserving navigation functionality.
Location data on maps is not determined by a single app; it comes from the device’s hardware, which uses multiple satellite systems supported by the phone’s chip. Apps receive a precomputed location from the chip, and the chip combines signals from all compatible satellites to derive a precise position. The car navigation publication notes that users can check which satellite systems their device supports by consulting device manuals or reputable tech sites. For instance, many smartphones produced in recent years include GLONASS support alongside GPS, a trend visible across broad market releases since earlier generations of devices. (Technical overview: device chipset functionality and satellite integration)
Besides GLONASS and GPS, two additional major satellite navigation networks exist around the world. The European Galileo and the Chinese BeiDou are also in operation, and in many devices these systems can be utilized together to enhance accuracy. Nevertheless, certain consumer and professional navigators, as well as some vehicle systems, may be limited in their interoperability with specific networks, depending on regional regulations and device firmware. (Global navigation systems overview)
Rogozin reassures readers that even if GPS signals were temporarily restricted, modern smartphones come equipped with GLONASS. Turning off GPS would allow GLONASS to function, maintaining comparable accuracy, ensuring that everyday navigation remains reliable. The aviation sector could face temporary inconveniences, since many aircraft, such as certain Boeing and Airbus models, rely primarily on GPS receivers. This is not an insurmountable barrier, as airlines can be equipped with GLONASS or alternative navigation receivers if necessary, minimizing disruption to operations. (Industry implications and resilience considerations)