Massive Disruptions in the Baltic Sea: Russia Accused

GPS disruptions in the Baltic Sea remain extensive, now also affecting crucial ship radar systems—a phenomenon not previously observed.

"There are no natural explanations for such interference," says Sebastian Wigmo of the Swedish Maritime Administration.

Since 2022, GPS disruptions have become a daily challenge for ships in the Baltic Sea. These disturbances make it difficult to rely on GPS for navigation, potentially showing completely incorrect positions.

During the spring, the disruptions have intensified, prompting warnings from both the Swedish Maritime Administration and Sweden's crisis information service about the risks of relying on GPS systems.

New Disruptions Stand Out

Now, it is observed that even ship radar systems are experiencing disruptions.

"To my knowledge, we have not had any observations of radar disruptions before," says Sebastian Wigmo, spokesperson for the Swedish Maritime Administration.

Disrupting radar requires more advanced methods than interfering with GPS systems. According to the latest warnings from the Swedish Maritime Administration, GPS system disruptions have been observed across virtually the entire Baltic Sea.

Estonia Points to Russia

The Swedish Maritime Administration does not speculate on what might be behind the radar disruption but notes that it could not have occurred naturally.

"However, we cannot say it is deliberate. Theoretically, it could be an unintentional mistake affecting the radar," says Sebastian Wigmo.

Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, however, has a clear motive in mind, explicitly pointing to Russia.

"We must call things by their proper names. It is a fact that Russia is affecting our GPS transmissions," he previously told Estonian ERR.

The disruptions could cause issues for recreational sailors who are unprepared, but within the maritime industry, there are multiple ways to navigate if needed.

"So far, we see no impact on maritime safety due to this," says Wigmo.

A number of EU countries are demanding that the European Commission take action to try to strengthen GPS systems, which also affect air traffic.