New navigation system for drones finds its way without GPS

The British BAE Systems has developed a navigation system for unmanned aircraft that is insensitive to interference with the GPS signal. For this, the system uses different types of freely available radio signals.

The new drone navigation system from BAE Systems is called Navsop, which stands for ‘Navigation via Signals of Opportunity’. Navsop may use signals from GPS satellites, air traffic control communications, television and radio stations, Wi-Fi and mobile phone networks. In a number of cases, the signals from so-called ‘GPS jammers’ can also be used for navigation. The system enables positioning to within a few meters accuracy.

By determining location from a multitude of locally available signals, the Navsop system is less vulnerable to jamming or ‘spoofing’ of the GPS signals. The system can also be used in places where GPS reception is difficult, for example inside buildings. Another advantage is that no new infrastructure is required.

The system can further refine the positioning by verifying previously received signals of unknown origin. Navsop is expected to arouse military interest in particular. The US military in particular makes extensive use of drones to reconnoitre areas, while also using drones in an offensive role.