'Everyone is doing it': The dark art of GPS jamming in the Iran war

GPS jamming has emerged as a significant tactic in the ongoing conflict involving Iran, with multiple actors employing this method to disrupt navigation and targeting systems. The technique involves emitting signals that interfere with Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers, rendering them ineffective. This disruption complicates military operations, particularly for drones, missiles, and other precision-guided weapons that rely heavily on GPS for accuracy. Iran and its allied groups have reportedly used GPS jamming extensively in regional conflicts, including in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen. The tactic is not limited to state actors; non-state militias and proxy forces have also adopted it, reflecting its accessibility and effectiveness. The widespread use of GPS jamming highlights a shift in modern warfare, where electronic warfare capabilities are becoming as critical as conventional arms. This development poses challenges for militaries that depend on satellite navigation, forcing them to develop countermeasures and alternative systems. The implications of GPS jamming extend beyond the battlefield. Civilian infrastructure, including commercial aviation and shipping, can be affected by such disruptions, raising concerns about broader security and safety. The proliferation of jamming technology underscores the vulnerabilities of global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and the need for enhanced resilience and regulation. As GPS jamming becomes more prevalent, it signals a growing trend in asymmetric warfare, where less technologically advanced groups can level the playing field against more sophisticated adversaries.