A significant rise in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) interference incidents affecting vessels in Middle Eastern regions between October 3 and 7, 2025.
According to UKMTO, the number of interference reports has notably increased compared with the same period last week. The affected areas include the Strait of Hormuz, Bandar-e-Pars, Port Sudan, and stretches of the Gulf and Suez Canal. Visual mapping bellow shows the positions of reporting vessels, with red and white pins marking their locations.
In addition to GNSS disruptions, authorities have observed a marked increase in Automatic Identification System (AIS) speed anomalies, suggesting that interference may be impacting electronic navigation and ship tracking. Heatmaps indicate these anomalies are widespread, spanning from the Gulf to Port Sudan and through the Suez Canal.
The Joint Maritime Information Centre (JMIC) issued Advisory Note 19 May 2025, emphasizing vigilance for vessels transiting the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz. Mariners are advised not to rely solely on electronic navigation tools or autopilot systems in areas prone to GNSS disruption. Traditional navigation methods, including visual position-fixing, are recommended to cross-check vessel positions in coastal or congested waters.
UKMTO continues to encourage all vessels operating within the Voluntary Reporting Area (VRA) to report any disruptions to electronic navigation systems, including GNSS, AIS, and other Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) systems. Detailed reports should include times, locations, and, where possible, photographs or videos of affected systems.
Maritime authorities stress that continued vigilance and reporting are critical to maintaining safe navigation amid the ongoing electronic disruptions.