Ships Report Sharp Rise In GPS Jamming After Israeli Airstrikes On Iran

Container ship — Image for representation purposes only

Electronic interference affecting ships in the Middle East has increased sharply after Israel carried out airstrikes on Iran, according to a multinational naval force that monitors maritime trade in the region.

The Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC), which operates under the Combined Maritime Forces led by the United States in Bahrain, said that vessels in the region have reported significant disruptions in electronic systems. These disruptions include false location signals and jamming of navigation equipment, which can affect a vessel’s ability to move safely.

The airstrikes were launched by Israel on Friday, targeting military and nuclear sites across Iran. The attacks have raised tensions in the region.

There’s concern that Iran might try to block the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for about 16.5 million barrels of oil daily. However, a recent warning from the JMIC suggests that threats to shipping are already happening in other ways, like GPS and communication jamming.

The JMIC has advised shipping companies to keep a close watch on their electronic aids and communication networks. It also urged operators to be ready with backup options in case navigation systems stop working due to interference.

Jamming and spoofing of vessels’ navigation systems have become increasingly common in recent years. Incidents have previously been linked to the war in Ukraine and attacks by the Houthis on commercial ships, leading to strange and inaccurate ship locations being transmitted.

Now, with Israel’s strike on Iran adding to regional instability, ships passing through the Persian Gulf and nearby waters may face similar challenges.

The Combined Maritime Forces, a coalition of 46 nations, continues to work toward securing vital shipping lanes in the region.

Reference: Bloomberg

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