According to foreign media reports, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) stated that there was a significant increase in the number of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) interference reports it received between October 3 and 7, showing a marked rise compared to previous weeks.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported an increase in “Automatic Identification System (AIS) speed anomalies” at Bandar Pers, the Strait of Hormuz, and Port Sudan. Irregular AIS speeds have also been continuously observed throughout the Gulf region, Port Sudan, and the Suez Canal area.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reiterated the advice issued by the Joint Maritime Information Centre (JMIC) in May this year for vessels transiting the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, urging them to remain vigilant, including identifying Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) interference. It also advised against relying solely on electronic navigation or autopilot.
On October 4, citing potential errors in GPS navigation equipment and for safety reasons, Qatar took the unprecedented step of suspending all maritime navigation activities. Qatar’s Ministry of Transport stated that the GPS issues were caused by a technical fault and lifted the daytime navigation restrictions on October 6.
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations urged vessels to report related issues. “All vessels navigating within the UKMTO Voluntary Reporting Area are strongly advised to record the time and location if their electronic navigation systems (such as Global Navigation Satellite System, Ship Automatic Identification System, or other Positioning, Navigation, and Timing systems) malfunction. If a vessel’s electronic equipment or navigation systems are affected, please include photos or videos when reporting to the UKMTO as soon as possible.”
Compiled by Shipping Online.
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