GPS jamming in Strait of Hormuz persists despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Iran, affecting maritime traffic which has otherwise nearly returned to normal levels. Westbound transits into the Arabian Gulf have resumed, but the region faces a persistent issue: widespread GPS jamming that hinders navigation.
Escalating GPS Jamming Incidents
Over the past weekend, GPS jamming incidents surged by 60%, affecting approximately 1,600 vessels, including small craft, according to consultancy Windward. At its peak, nearly 25% of vessels in the area experienced GPS disruptions at least once in a 24-hour period.
Impact on Vessel Operations
The jamming has disrupted AIS signals not only on the Iranian side of the Gulf but also in the UAE and Qatar. Crude tankers, product tankers, large container ships, and LNG carriers (LNGCs) have all reported interference.
QatarEnergy has responded by suspending nighttime tanker and LNGC movements near Mesaieed, citing safety concerns arising from navigation difficulties caused by GPS jamming.
Industry Response
Navios Maritime Partners CEO Angeliki Frangou highlighted the challenges operators face during an interview with CNBC. “Continuous GPS interruptions are impacting safety in the Strait of Hormuz,” she stated. Frangou noted that some operators have adjusted itineraries, opting to transit the strait only during daylight hours to mitigate risks.
“Safety conditions are a top priority,” she said. “We are constantly monitoring the situation to ensure operational security.”
Unconventional Measures to Avoid Attacks
Amid heightened tensions, some vessel operators have adopted unique strategies to deter potential attacks. Windward reported that during the peak tension period from June 12-24, about 55 vessels used AIS to broadcast conciliatory messages. These tactics included entering phrases like “China owned” or “Russian crude” in the AIS destination field to make the vessels appear less attractive targets. This approach echoes similar measures taken during the Houthi shipping crisis in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Daylight Transits and Precautionary Actions
The disruptions have led many shipping stakeholders to prioritize safety by implementing precautionary measures. Liners are avoiding nighttime transits through the strait, further highlighting the operational challenges posed by GPS jamming.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing GPS jamming underscores the need for enhanced cybersecurity and navigational safeguards in one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. As operators adapt to these challenges, industry-wide collaboration and technological innovation will be crucial to maintaining safety and efficiency.
