In an era where Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) face increased threats from jamming and spoofing, a navigation solution that operates independently of satellite signals is critical for maritime operations. Disruptions to GNSS can significantly impact shipping and aviation safety, making Kongsberg Discovery’s Motion Gyro Compasses (MGCs) indispensable for reliable, accurate navigation in contested environments. Jamming poses a significant danger by interrupting GNSS signals and limiting access to vital satellite-based positioning data. This disruption can leave vessels without accurate speed or location information, creating serious operational and safety hazards, particularly in busy shipping lanes or poor visibility conditions.
Spoofing, however, is even more dangerous as it involves attackers mimicking legitimate GNSS signals to mislead navigation systems into reporting incorrect vessel positions. Without a dependable backup, a vessel may unknowingly veer off course, risking grounding or collisions. Traditional gyrocompasses are designed to resist these signal-based attacks, but many modern navigation systems still rely on GNSS for accuracy, introducing vulnerabilities. This makes it crucial for maritime operators to deploy navigation systems capable of functioning independently of GNSS.
Kongsberg’s MGCs are engineered for resilience, utilizing high-grade strap-down inertial sensors to detect the Earth’s rotation without external input. This independent technology enables the MGCs to determine true north and maintain precision heading across various latitudes, while also supporting Doppler-based tracking of vessel velocity, effectively negating the need for satellite-derived speed data. Kongsberg’s MGCs guarantee continuous latitude estimation, accurate heading, roll, pitch, and heave without GNSS help, providing a robust navigation solution that maintains high precision even amidst signal loss or attacks. Built to be maintenance-free with no mechanical drift, the MGCs meet International Maritime Organization standards and can be integrated into various navigation systems.
As jamming and spoofing threats continue to evolve, Kongsberg’s MGCs present a reliable defense for ensuring navigational safety in any environment, making them an essential choice for organizations prioritizing resilience and reliability.