FrontierSI releases new study on rising GNSS spoofing threat to aviation
Melbourne, 28 April 2026
FrontierSI has released a new white paper examining the rapid escalation of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) spoofing and its growing impact on aviation safety and navigation integrity. It builds on recent industry studies with new insights into large-scale detection using space-based data.
The study, ‘GNSS Spoofing Detection in Aviation using ADS-B Data,’ shows how spoofing, where false signals mimic legitimate GNSS data, is becoming more widespread, sophisticated and difficult to detect.
Unlike jamming, spoofing does not simply disrupt signals. It can generate convincing but incorrect positioning information, meaning aircraft systems may continue operating normally while relying on false data.
Drawing on Aireon’s global space-based Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) data, the research demonstrates how spoofing can be detected at scale using independent position validation. It identifies clear behavioural signatures in flight data, including track inconsistencies and anomalous movements, even when onboard integrity indicators appear nominal. Critically, the analysis shows that spoofing can still be detected under these conditions.
Graeme Kernich, CEO of FrontierSI, said:
“GNSS underpins modern aviation, but its vulnerabilities are becoming increasingly visible. Strengthening resilience and maintaining trust in these systems is now more critical than ever before.”
The paper includes real-world case studies, ranging from runway misalignment on approach in Peru to aircraft falsely appearing in Australian airspace due to spoofing events thousands of kilometres away, reinforcing that the threat is global and not confined to conflict zones.
Eldar Rubinov, PNT Lead at FrontierSI, commented:
“Even when systems appear to be operating normally, spoofing leaves detectable patterns in the data. This work shows how those signals can be identified and monitored at scale, even when onboard systems show no indication of a problem.”
The white paper is the first release from FrontierSI’s PNT Labs, an independent testing and evaluation capability designed to assess the performance and resilience of positioning, navigation and timing technologies under both normal and disrupted conditions.
To download a copy, click HERE.
For more information, visit www.frontiersi.com.au or contact Eldar Rubinov: erubinov@frontiersi.com.au.
