Ships report high GPS jamming in Middle East following Israeli attack on Iran

Electronic interference in ship systems operating in the Middle East increased following Israel's airstrike on Iran early Friday, according to the Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC).

In an advisory issued today, the center disclosed that ship operators had reported significant electronic interference in the world’s highest oil-producing region.

The center recommended that ship-operating companies closely monitor all electronic systems and communication networks, anticipating potential further electronic disruptions, and prepare alternative options in the event of navigation aid failures.

JMIC, operating under the umbrella of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), which is a 46-nation coalition led by the United States, focuses on ensuring the safety of navigation in the Middle East.

The interference with navigation systems and the appearance of false location signals has become an increasing phenomenon in the commercial shipping sector in recent years, particularly following the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war and the escalation of attacks by the Houthi group on vessels in the Red Sea.