Cyber Threat Behind GPS Glitch at Delhi Airport; Proposal for Swadeshi Navigation System

A serious cyber threat has emerged behind the recent technical glitch at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, Delhi. Investigations have revealed that the Global Positioning System (GPS) signals were intentionally tampered with, causing severe disruption to flight operations.

On November 7 at around 9 a.m., a malfunction occurred in the Automatic Message Switching System (AMSS) of Air Traffic Control (ATC), resulting in flight disruptions for more than 12 hours. Over 800 domestic and international flights were delayed, and 20 flights had to be cancelled. Normal operations resumed only by 9:30 p.m.

Fake GPS Signals Caused Confusion for Pilots

Between the evening of November 6 and 7, several pilots reported receiving fake GPS signals. Instead of the correct runway, the cockpit screens showed farmlands and incorrect locations, creating confusion about altitude and position. To handle the situation, pilots switched from automatic to manual mode, thereby averting potential accidents.

Experts Explain the Cause

Cyber experts explained that the U.S. civilian GPS transmits open C/A signals based on Pseudo Random Noise (PRN). These signals can be copied, unlike military-grade GPS, which is encrypted and immune to interference. In this incident, hackers allegedly copied the PRN signal and created a “signal blast”, leading to fake signals received by pilots and crashing the ATC system.

Possible Foreign Involvement and Future Precautions

Experts believe that this cyber attack may have been executed with the help of a foreign government or international hackers. To prevent such incidents in the future, cybersecurity specialists are urging India to develop an indigenous Swadeshi navigation system to reduce dependency on foreign GPS technology.