Navigation sovereignty is a growing concern

European nations are increasingly focused on navigation sovereignty as the vulnerabilities of global satellite navigation systems (GNSS) become more apparent. This concern is driven by the reliance of billions of devices—such as aircraft, ships, drones, and autonomous vehicles—on GNSS for positioning, navigation, and timing.

GNSS is a critical but vulnerable infrastructure

Global revenues from GNSS applications are expected to surpass 580 billion euros by 2034, according to the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA). This growth is fueled by advancements in intelligent mobility, robotics, and autonomous systems. However, the increasing frequency of signal jamming and spoofing, particularly in regions like the Baltic states and the Black Sea, has exposed the fragility of these systems.

Galileo and the limits of satellite navigation

Europe’s Galileo system is among the most advanced and precise GNSS in the world. While it is a significant asset for technological autonomy, it does not guarantee navigation sovereignty on its own. A satellite signal may be unavailable, unreliable, or even falsified, which can disrupt critical operations in both civilian and military contexts.

The risks of GNSS disruptions

GNSS interference can have concrete consequences. A drone may have to halt its mission if it loses a reliable position signal. A ship might be misled by a falsified signal, thinking it is miles away from its actual location. These disruptions highlight the need for systems that can function even when GNSS signals are compromised.

Inertial navigation as a solution

Inertial navigation systems (INS) are emerging as a key solution to ensure continuity in navigation. These systems use onboard gyroscopes and accelerometers to measure movement and calculate position, orientation, and trajectory without relying on external signals. This makes them resistant to jamming and spoofing.

The importance of resilience over precision

Modern navigation systems must prioritize resilience over pure precision. This means designing architectures that can handle missing, degraded, or conflicting information. INS plays a central role in this shift, providing reliable navigation when GNSS signals are unavailable or suspect.

Europe’s strategic focus on navigation technologies

The push for navigation sovereignty is not only a space issue but also a technological and industrial one. Europe has a strong foundation in space technology, research, and specialized industries. France, in particular, is leading efforts with a mix of historical expertise, innovative startups, and cutting-edge research in fields like quantum and artificial intelligence.

Securing the future of autonomous systems

Mastering inertial navigation and related technologies is crucial for developing resilient autonomous systems. This involves not just improving precision but ensuring that systems can operate reliably even when dependent infrastructure, like GNSS, becomes vulnerable.