Defending the Skies: The Case for Affordable GPS Spoofing Mitigation
As global aviation continues to scale to new heights, a silent but growing threat looms over the safety and reliability of modern flight: GPS spoofing.
Once considered a rare and sophisticated attack vector, GPS spoofing the act of broadcasting false GPS signals to mislead receivers, has become alarmingly accessible. With tools available for less than $100, attackers can now disrupt aircraft navigation systems with ease. This evolving threat has prompted concern across civil and military sectors, particularly in areas with geopolitical tension.
At StratoSentinel, we believe that safety should not be a premium feature - it should be a guarantee. Our founder, Michael Sammueller, has recently completed a landmark research study investigating how comparatively cheap technology can be used to detect and mitigate GPS spoofing in real-time. His Master’s thesis, submitted to the University of Essex, explored the vulnerabilities in current aviation systems and offered a novel, scalable solution: a smart GPS receiver designed to detect spoofed signals, ensure continuous navigation integrity, and help aircraft recover gracefully from interference.
The research was guided by a simple question: Can civil aviation be protected from GPS spoofing without the need for classified, military-grade hardware?
The answer was a resounding yes.
Tests and Shocking Outcomes
Through rigorous simulation, real-world testing, and interviews with aviation professionals, the study revealed that aviation staff often lack the tools and training necessary to deal with spoofing incidents. Through the branding of StratoSentinel, Michael developed a solution that helps pilots and systems distingue between authentic and malicious signals.
This work underscores the urgent need for both technological innovation and regulatory reform. As GPS interference incidents rise across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, the aviation industry must prioritize resilience. It is not just about protecting aircraft from spoofed signals, it is about preserving trust in the very systems that keep our skies safe.
StratoSentinel is committed to building on this foundation, transforming research into reality. We are already working on bringing next-generation GPS resilience tools to aviation stakeholders world wide.
Interested in collaborating?
We are actively seeking partnerships with forward-thinking aviation stakeholders, from aircraft operators to air navigation service providers. If you are passionate about securing the future of flight, we would love to hear from you.
