GPS Spoofing

Event: Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft experienced GPS spoofing while delivering aid to Myanmar under “Operation Brahma” after an earthquake in late March 2025.

GPS Spoofing Defined: A cyberattack that uses false GPS signals to mislead an aircraft’s navigation systems. It can overpower weak satellite signals, causing receivers to display incorrect location data.

Risk Factors: GPS spoofing can lead to hijacking, misdirection of aircraft, disruption of military operations, and potential friendly fire incidents.

IAF Response: The IAF acknowledged the potential for degraded GPS availability, as indicated by a “Notice to Airmen” (NOTAM) issued by Mandalay International Airport. They asserted that their crews are trained to handle such situations and that all missions were completed safely and as planned.

Extent: Reportedly, a majority of the six military transport aircraft deployed experienced GPS spoofing. Five landed in Yangon and Nay-Pyi-Daw on March 29-30, and one went to Mandalay on April 1.

Mitigation Measures: Potential countermeasures include using multi-constellation systems, advanced signal processing, and anti-spoofing devices.