Commissioner Andrius Kubilius addressed the European Parliament on September 10, 2025, highlighting serious threats to aviation and maritime sectors from deliberate interference with Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) like Galileo and GPS. Discussing the rising risks of jamming and spoofing attacks, Kubilius presented a multi-pronged approach reflecting the European Commission's response to this challenge.
The Severity of GNSS Interference
Kubilius noted that 40% of European air traffic operates in zones heavily impacted by radio frequency interference, with the eastern EU flank, especially near Ukraine and the Baltic sea region, suffering steep increases. Jamming obstructs satellite signals, while spoofing deceives receivers by presenting counterfeit data—both risks that threaten safety in critical transport sectors as well as agriculture.
Concrete Proposals for Resilience
The Commissioner outlined three main actions. First, diplomatic engagement at international organizations such as ICAO and ITU to condemn and address interference. Second, technological enhancements: Galileo now offers Open Service Navigation Message Authentication to detect spoofing; a Public Regulated Service will launch by year-end to provide encrypted navigation signals for government use; a Radio Frequency Interference monitoring service is planned for 2026–2027; and a future multi-orbit satellite constellation aims to bolster system robustness.
Operationally, the EU Aviation Safety Agency and EUROCONTROL are enhancing contingency planning, while an expert group focuses on maritime interference reporting and response mechanisms. Kubilius called for strengthened interinstitutional cooperation and robust funding through the Multiannual Financial Framework to implement these measures effectively.
Stakeholder Implications
Transport operators and infrastructure authorities face improved protection mechanisms but may encounter new compliance and technology adaptation costs. The European Commission’s proposals enhance GNSS service reliability and security, positively impacting public safety and economic stability. However, the need for investment in new surveillance and satellite technologies may place financial demands on EU budgets and participating Member States. Industry players in aerospace and navigation technology stand to benefit from innovation incentives but must navigate evolving regulatory requirements.
Kubilius’s speech positions increased EU coordination, technology upgrades, and international diplomacy to confront growing GNSS interference. His agenda anticipates a shift toward stronger EU integration and regulatory oversight in satellite navigation services, emphasizing security and operational resilience to protect vital transportation sectors.