Could you live without GPS? It's OK, the economy can't, either

GPS, or Global Positioning System, is a crucial technology created by the US military that relies on satellites to provide accurate location and timing information. It impacts many aspects of daily life and critical sectors like agriculture and telecommunications. Disruptions to GPS, whether from military actions or other causes, could severely affect economies and operations. In war zones, jammers are being used to interfere with GPS, leading to dangerous navigation issues for pilots. The reliance on GPS is so deep that losing it could create a crisis, impacting everything from cell phone connectivity to food production, highlighting the need for protecting such essential systems.

Russia's development of a nuclear anti-satellite weapon raises serious concerns for the U.S. and its allies, as such an attack could cripple global satellite systems and disrupt economic and social stability. Unlike the U.S., Russia and China have backup terrestrial systems for GPS, leaving the U.S. vulnerable since it shut down its own backup system, Lorraine, in 2010. The potential use of this weapon could lead to widespread chaos, threatening not just American interests but impacting all countries that rely on satellite navigation. With no clear plan to re-establish a backup, the U.S. risks being at a disadvantage if these threats become reality, highlighting the need for improved preparedness and strategic planning in space security.

The U.S. government shut down an important navigation system called Loran thinking satellite GPS was better. Later on, it realized this was a mistake but didn’t replace Loran effectively. Though Congress tried to push for a backup GPS system, funding fell short. As a result, the government advised citizens to find alternatives. Currently, there are some paid GPS alternatives, but they aren't accessible to everyone. Advocates suggest upgrading the old Loran system, now called E-Loran, to create a widely available solution that can safeguard both the economy and national security against potential threats from other countries like Russia and China. It shows the need for better planning and investment in critical infrastructure so that all Americans can benefit from reliable navigation systems.

Operating GPS systems costs billions every year, but an alternative could be developed with much lower expenses—less than $100 million annually. However, concrete plans to establish this alternative remain absent. Until such solutions are available, people may need to rely on traditional maps, as many did before smartphones changed navigation. Although driving without GPS can be frustrating, it’s a reminder of how we adapted before digital tools. This conversation highlights the importance of preparing for situations where satellite signals might fail, ensuring we have reliable navigation options. As we consider our dependency on technology, it’s crucial to remember past methods that helped us navigate our world successfully and to explore ways to ensure we can continue to find our way in the future.