Virginia-based NAL Research has joined forces with two Norwegian firms to create a maritime solution that keeps vessels resilient in GPS-denied environments.
Developed with Tschudi Shipping and SGM Technology, PntGuard is a plug-and-play navigational support that instantly warns crews when a ship’s position has been compromised.
It features two main components: a receiver that connects to a Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) service, and a bridge display that shows both the ship’s spoofed GPS signal and its true real-time position.
Unlike traditional systems that only alert crews when GPS is disrupted, PntGuard provides secured alternative position data through its connection with the Iridium low-Earth orbit satellite network.
This integration enables the system to relay constant assured position data anywhere in the world day and night.
“PntGuard gives your vessel’s true position when GNSS fails — delivering certainty, safety and control to every voyage,” the product’s website stated.
Resilience Against Confusion
Spoofed GPS signals can misdirect ships far from their intended course, putting them at risk of entering restricted waters or colliding with other vessels or natural obstacles, especially in low-visibility, high-traffic areas.
PntGuard solves this by giving shore offices a vessel’s precise location at any given time, displaying proof that can be shared with other seafarers.
The system has finished months of sea trials as part of a test pilot program in Europe, with developers saying PntGuard is already being rolled out to consumers and partner organizations.
