In a crucial debate that holds the potential to reshape our national infrastructure security and enhance commercial wireless networks, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is exploring exciting alternatives to the conventional satellite-based Global Positioning System (GPS) technologies within the 900 MHz spectrum.
The discussion stems from increasing concerns about the vulnerabilities of GPS, which has been the backbone of navigation, telecommunications, and logistics for decades. Cybersecurity experts have warned that the satellite-based system is susceptible to jamming, spoofing, and signal degradation. These risks have fueled interest in alternative Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) technologies, including terrestrial-based systems and hybrid models incorporating fiber-optic networks.
According to an FCC spokesperson, “The Commission is actively reviewing the feasibility of alternative PNT systems in the 900 MHz band as part of a broader effort to enhance reliability and security in critical communications.” While no final decision has been reached, industry experts expect a formal ruling later in 2025.
Why the 900 MHz Band Matters
The 900 MHz spectrum is a key asset in U.S. telecommunications. Traditionally allocated for land mobile radio (LMR) services, including public safety and utility communications, the FCC has begun repurposing portions of this band for broadband and industrial applications in recent years.
One of the primary concerns regarding GPS reliance in the 900 MHz spectrum is signal vulnerability. Unlike terrestrial networks, satellite-based GPS is inherently weak at ground level and can be easily disrupted. GPS spoofing incidents—where false signals are broadcast to mislead GPS receivers—have been reported in conflict zones, with increasing frequency over Europe and the Middle East. The U.S. Department of Transportation has noted the growing sophistication of such attacks, citing potential risks to aviation, shipping, and emergency services.
Alternatives to Satellite-Based GPS
With the FCC evaluating next-generation PNT solutions, several alternatives have emerged as potential candidates:
- Enhanced Long-Range Navigation (eLORAN): A modernized version of the legacy LORAN system, eLORAN is a ground-based radio navigation technology touted for its resilience to jamming. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has previously advocated for eLORAN as a backup to GPS.
- Fiber-Optic Timing Networks: Some experts argue that leveraging fiber-optic infrastructure for precise timing and synchronization could provide an alternative to GPS-based timing, which is critical for financial transactions, power grids, and telecommunications.
- Hybrid Systems: Companies such as NextNav and Locata have developed hybrid positioning systems that combine terrestrial signals with traditional GPS to enhance resilience. These technologies could be deployed in urban environments where satellite signals are obstructed.
“The vulnerabilities of satellite-based GPS are not theoretical; they are real and increasing,” said Dr. Dana Goward, President of the Resilient Navigation and Timing Foundation. “We need a diversified approach to ensure critical systems remain operational even in the face of interference or attack.”
Industry and Government Stakeholders Weigh In
The FCC’s deliberation has drawn input from various stakeholders, including national security agencies, telecom firms, and commercial transportation industries. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the Department of Defense (DoD) have expressed interest in strengthening alternatives to GPS, citing concerns over foreign interference and emerging threats in cyber warfare.
The private sector, too, is watching closely. Wireless carriers have increasingly explored the potential of the 900 MHz band for industrial and broadband applications, with companies such as Anterix pushing for expanded private LTE networks.
Critics, however, caution that shifting away from satellite-based GPS could create regulatory and technological challenges. Some fear that alternative solutions could require significant infrastructure investments and new industry standards. Others argue that current GPS augmentation methods, such as the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS), already provide sufficient accuracy for most applications.
Next Steps and Implications
The FCC is expected to issue a public notice later this year outlining proposed changes and requesting further industry feedback. Any decision to shift PNT responsibilities away from satellite-based GPS in the 900 MHz spectrum would likely involve a phased transition, requiring coordination between federal agencies and industry players.
Adopting alternative PNT systems could set a precedent for future spectrum policy decisions, influencing how the U.S. manages its navigation and timing infrastructure. As global competitors such as China and Russia advance their PNT technologies—including China’s BeiDou and Russia’s GLONASS—the FCC’s ruling will play a crucial role in ensuring U.S. positioning and navigation remain secure and competitive.
“The stakes are high,” said a former FCC official who requested anonymity. “This isn’t just about telecom policy—it’s about national security, economic resilience, and the future of global positioning technology.”
As the FCC continues its review, the debate over the best path forward for PNT solutions in the 900 MHz spectrum underscores the broader challenge of securing America’s critical infrastructure in an increasingly contested digital landscape.
