Is Russia Jamming GPS Signals Over the Baltic Sea? Sweden Thinks So!

The recent surge in GPS signal jamming over the Baltic Sea, reportedly linked to Russian activity, has raised serious concerns for aviation safety in the region. The Swedish Transport Agency (STA) has documented a staggering increase in jamming incidents, escalating from just 55 in 2023 to 733 occurrences by August 2025. This interference, which has been traced back to Russian territory, affects not only aviation but also maritime operations, prompting warnings from various European nations regarding potential threats to civil aviation.

Last updated: 28 August 2025 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• GPS signal jamming incidents in the Baltic Sea have surged dramatically, with 733 cases reported in 2025.
• The Swedish Transport Agency attributes these disruptions to Russian territory.
• Airlines and shipping companies are increasingly affected, raising safety concerns.
• The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has expressed serious concerns over the situation.
• Despite denials from Russia, many European nations view this jamming as part of a broader strategy to disrupt security.

Understanding GPS Signal Jamming

Global Positioning System (GPS) jamming refers to the deliberate interference with GPS signals, making it difficult or impossible for users to receive accurate location data. This is particularly concerning for aviation and maritime navigation, where precise positioning is crucial for safety. Jamming can result from various factors, including military operations or malicious activities aimed at disrupting communications and navigation systems.

The Rise of Jamming Incidents in the Baltic Sea

According to the STA, the frequency of GPS signal jamming incidents over the Baltic Sea has escalated alarmingly in recent years. The 733 reported incidents in 2025 represent a significant jump from the previous year, highlighting a troubling trend. This increase has been attributed to a combination of heightened military activities and potential strategic disruptions by Russia.

Tracing the Source of Jamming

The STA has traced many of the jamming incidents to Russian territory, prompting accusations from multiple European nations regarding Moscow's involvement. The geographical scope of the jamming has expanded from the eastern parts of Swedish airspace into Swedish land and waters, affecting both civilian and military operations.

Recent Incidents Highlighting the Risk

A notable incident occurred when a plane carrying Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, experienced GPS interference while en route to Bulgaria. The pilots were forced to rely on paper maps for navigation, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. This event has intensified calls for action among European leaders to address the threat posed by GPS jamming.

Impact on Aviation Safety

The implications of GPS jamming extend beyond mere navigation disruptions. Andreas Holmgren, head of aviation at the STA, has warned that such interference poses a direct safety risk to civil aviation. Jamming can lead to increased chances of collisions or navigational errors, particularly if pilots are unable to rely on GPS for accurate positioning.

Alternative Navigation Methods

While aircraft can utilise alternative navigation systems, reliance on GPS is widespread due to its accuracy and reliability. The UK's Civil Aviation Authority has noted that modern aircraft navigation systems incorporate multiple technologies, meaning the impact of GPS jamming may not be as severe as initially feared. However, the risks associated with jamming cannot be ignored.

International Response and Concerns

In June 2025, Sweden, alongside five other Baltic nations—Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland—raised their concerns with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The ICAO Council expressed "great concern" over the situation and urged Russia to comply with international obligations to ensure that disruptions cease. Despite these appeals, incidents have reportedly continued to rise.

Russia's Denial and Accusations

Moscow has consistently denied allegations of involvement in GPS jamming, describing claims of interference as unfounded. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov labelled reports of jamming as "incorrect," reflecting a broader strategy of denial in response to international criticism. Nevertheless, European governments and aviation experts remain sceptical, viewing the jamming incidents as part of a calculated effort to undermine security in the region.

The Broader Context of GPS Jamming

The current situation cannot be viewed in isolation. The rise in GPS jamming incidents coincides with heightened tensions between Russia and Western nations, particularly following the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Bulgaria's aviation authority has also reported a noticeable increase in GPS incidents since the invasion, further linking the rise in jamming to geopolitical conflicts.

Military Activity and Interference

Experts have highlighted that GPS interference often occurs near conflict zones, suggesting that military activity may be a contributing factor. While not all instances of jamming are deliberate acts of sabotage, the increased military presence in the region raises concerns about the potential for unintentional disruptions affecting civilian aviation and maritime operations.

What Lies Ahead for Baltic Aviation

The future of aviation safety in the Baltic region hinges on the ability of international bodies and governments to effectively address the issue of GPS jamming. As incidents continue to rise, the need for improved monitoring and coordination among nations is paramount. The potential for further disruptions poses a significant challenge, not only for aviation but also for maritime safety.

Potential Solutions and Strategies

In response to the growing threat of GPS jamming, several strategies could be considered, including:

1. Enhanced monitoring of GPS signals to quickly identify and mitigate instances of jamming.
2. Collaboration between international aviation authorities to share information and best practices.
3. Investment in alternative navigation technologies to reduce reliance on GPS.
4. Diplomatic efforts to address the root causes of tensions in the region.

Conclusion

The increase in GPS signal jamming over the Baltic Sea is a pressing issue that requires urgent attention from international aviation authorities and governments. As the situation evolves, continued vigilance and cooperation among nations will be essential in safeguarding civil aviation and ensuring the safety of both passengers and crew. What measures will be taken to counteract these disruptions, and how will they affect the future of aviation in Europe?

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