Market Intelligence
Satellites United Kingdom

United Kingdom Alternative Navigation Technologies

For over two decades systems such as Global Positioning System (GPS) and Galileo have been used for commercial and military positioning as well as navigation.  With the addition of satellite constellations Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) provide reliable, accurate worldwide coverage.  However, these systems can be vulnerable to jamming and spoofing.  Jamming is the presence of a competing signal that prevents the decoding of the true signal.  This can be both intentional and unintentional.  Spoofing is the malicious transmission of false signals intended to divert users from their intended position. 

The UK MOD’s Defence Equipment and Support as well as the UK Defence and Security Accelerator are seeking information from industry and academia to understand the range of technologies used for commercial positioning and navigation systems.  The MOD’s main area of interest is to know the location of the weapon during the mid-course phase of deployment, with an accuracy of ± 5 metres. 

The MOD is seeking and solutions that:  

  • have sufficient accuracy to monitor and report on position during the mid-course to within ± 5 metres;
  • currently be at a Technology Readiness Level of 4 or above in either a civilian or military application;
  • not have sole reliance on GNSS;
  • have the potential to be further developed to meet military needs.

The information obtained by the MOD will be reviewed to identify technology areas that would benefit from further investment by the MOD.  Details of your submission will not be shared outside of UK Government.

The aim of the MOD’s technology exploration is to develop its existing technology and proceed to a subsequent Test and Trial phase.   Successful suppliers in this technology exploration will have to work with the MOD’s existing suppliers of materiel and be comfortable working as part of the supply chain for intended applications within a UK procured weapon system.

The MOD is particularly interested in innovations from non-traditional defense suppliers and have a dedicated team of Innovation Partners who can discuss your innovations and the defence sector with you.  

For more information on how to submit a proposal to the MOD or on other opportunities in the UK defense and security sectors, please contact PJ Menner in Embassy London at PJ.Menner@trade.gov.