The UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO) is working with government
partners to improve the UK's resilience in satellite-based
Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT).
In October, the UKHO hosted the UK's first cross-government
geodesy, positioning, navigation and timing working group.
Representatives from 19 government bodies came together to share
insight on the risks, opportunities and interdependencies linked
to PNT systems, including Global Navigation Satellite Systems
(GNSS). The group will continue to support collaboration and
exchange knowledge as further resilience actions progress.
There has since been an announcement from the Department for
Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) at the Royal Institute
of Navigation, where details were shared on new measures to
reinforce the UK's resilience in GNSS, as well as alternatives
such eLoran (electronic long range navigation) and the National
Timing Centre. These measures are designed to protect the
essential PNT services that support national security, transport,
energy and everyday digital services.
GNSS supports critical activities across the UK economy. It
provides accurate location and timing for communications,
maritime and aviation safety, and the smooth running of power and
financial networks. As threats to space-based systems grow,
improving national resilience is increasingly important.
The UKHO's expertise in geodesy, the science of measuring and
mapping the shape of the Earth, plays a key role in helping the
UK understand and protect PNT services. Our specialists provide
trusted positioning and timing advice across defence and civil
programmes, including supporting the safety of navigation in UK
waters.
It has been a privilege to organise and chair the first UK
cross-government geodesy, positioning, navigation and timing
working group. Bringing together experts from across government
demonstrates the strength of our shared commitment to improving
the UK's resilience in satellite-based positioning and timing.
Geodesy and PNT infrastructure underpin everyday services and
critical national systems. As threats and pressures increase,
maintaining the UK's capability in this area is vital for public
safety and economic security.
It is fantastic to hear that the work with eLoran, GNSS
Interference Monitoring Programme, Space Based Time Transfer and
the National Timing Centre have received ongoing funding. This
funding will assist both our data collection and the mariner. It
will protect and assist future geodesy and PNT, improving
resilience as these systems come increasingly under threat.
I look forward to integrating the outcomes of this investment
into our work and hearing more on these developments at future
Geodesy and PNT working groups.
Joe Pearce, Senior Geodesy and PNT Specialist, UKHO
For full details of the announcement, please see the official statement
published by DSIT.
The UKHO also has more information on how to protect against
GNSS and
AIS jamming and spoofing.
