India's aviation and cyber security agencies are intensifying efforts to counter a growing threat from GPS spoofing after technical assessments reportedly identified suspected operational infrastructure in several neighbouring countries. The findings come against the backdrop of a steep rise in navigation interference incidents affecting commercial flights and raising concerns about aviation safety.
Officials familiar with ongoing assessments say investigators have detected patterns suggesting that GPS spoofing operations may be originating from locations outside India. While authorities have not publicly attributed responsibility to any specific actor, sources indicate that cyber groups known for sophisticated electronic attacks are being examined as part of the investigation.
The issue has emerged as a significant concern for civil aviation authorities because of its potential impact on aircraft navigation systems and flight safety.
Sharp rise in aviation interference incidents
According to News 18, government data points to a substantial increase in reported Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) interference events over the past two years. Airlines reported thousands of incidents between late 2023 and the end of 2025, while several hundred additional cases were recorded during the opening months of 2026.
The surge has prompted increased scrutiny from the aviation sector, with authorities seeking to determine whether the incidents stem from deliberate spoofing activity, technical anomalies, or a combination of factors.
According to cyber security experts involved in analysing the trend, some of the affected flights were operating along heavily trafficked Asian air corridors, where navigation systems depend extensively on satellite-based positioning data.
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Understanding the threat posed by GPS spoofing
According to News 18, unlike GPS jamming, which blocks satellite signals altogether, GPS spoofing involves transmitting counterfeit navigation signals that mislead receivers into calculating incorrect positions, speeds or altitudes.
For aircraft, this can create misleading navigation information that may affect route tracking, situational awareness and onboard systems that rely on satellite positioning. Modern aircraft incorporate multiple layers of redundancy and alternative navigation methods, reducing the likelihood of catastrophic outcomes, but repeated interference remains a serious operational concern.
Experts note that spoofing attacks have become increasingly sophisticated in recent years as access to advanced electronic warfare tools and cyber capabilities has expanded.
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Authorities focus on strengthening defences
According to News 18, Indian aviation regulators have already issued advisories and reporting procedures related to GNSS interference events. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation and the Airports Authority of India have been coordinating investigations and monitoring efforts to better understand the nature and source of the incidents.
Cybersecurity specialists argue that strengthening vulnerable systems must now become a priority. This includes improving detection capabilities, enhancing navigation resilience and ensuring rapid reporting mechanisms for interference events.
