U.S. Army units have begun receiving updated navigational hardware known as the Mounted Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing System (MAPS) GEN II, system officials announced. This new system builds on its predecessor, MAPS GEN I, to enhance soldiers’ abilities to navigate and communicate in high-stress environments where GPS might be denied or degraded.
MAPS GEN II was designed to be compatible with emerging technology used within the Army. It also offers increased security against complex electronic warfare threats, including adversaries attempting to sabotage GPS location technology through jamming or spoofing, according to a service release. Jennifer Thermos, acting product manager of Mounted PNT, emphasized the difference between jamming and spoofing. While jamming disrupts signals, spoofing involves receiving false GPS signals, which could lead soldiers into traps set by the enemy if not properly recognized and rejected by systems like MAPS GEN II.
The new system addresses these vulnerabilities through tighter encryption, sensor fusion algorithms, and additional security enhancements. It also includes an alert system to warn soldiers of electronic interference threats. Recently trained units include the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, which is attached to the 7th Infantry Division, according to the Army.
Capt. Tianna Johnson of the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team noted that GPS jamming was a recognized issue during their training. In one instance, MAPS detected a threat as intended, allowing them to take appropriate actions in response.
Integrating new technology across the services continues to be a top priority for the Pentagon. In September, officials established a new U.S. Central Command task force aimed at speeding the delivery of technology, including drones, to units in the field within a 60-day timeframe.
About the author: Zita Ballinger Fletcher previously served as editor of Military History Quarterly and Vietnam magazines and as the historian of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. She holds an M.A. with distinction in military history.
