EU Plane Incident Sparks GPS Security Concerns

• Von der Leyen’s aircraft faced suspected Russian GPS jamming over Bulgaria, prompting EU plans to strengthen satellite navigation defences.

Suspected GPS Jamming Disrupts EU Leader’s Flight

The European Commission confirmed that the navigation system of a plane carrying President Ursula von der Leyen (pictured) was disrupted during her approach to southern Bulgaria. Officials suspect the interference was caused by Russian-origin GPS jamming, though the aircraft landed safely at Plovdiv Airport. According to the Financial Times, pilots resorted to paper maps after satellite signals were neutralized mid-flight. Bulgarian authorities reported that terrestrial navigation tools were used to ensure the aircraft’s safe arrival.

A Commission spokesperson stated that threats and intimidation are consistent with Russia’s broader pattern of hostile actions. The incident occurred during von der Leyen’s tour of eastern EU member states, focused on defence preparedness. She reportedly witnessed firsthand the persistent risks posed by Russia and its affiliated actors. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov denied the allegations, calling the information inaccurate.

Broader Pattern of Navigation Disruptions

Bulgaria’s Air Traffic Services Authority noted a marked increase in GPS jamming incidents since January 2022. Experts have long warned that Russia’s interference with satellite navigation systems has affected thousands of civilian flights across Europe. Cyrille Rosay, a senior cybersecurity analyst at the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), told the BBC that such disruptions have intensified since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Moscow has consistently denied involvement in scrambling satellite-based positioning systems.

The European Commission views the latest incident as further evidence of the need to bolster its technological resilience. Officials emphasized that GPS jamming poses risks not only to military operations but also to civilian aviation. The growing frequency of such events has raised concerns about the vulnerability of satellite infrastructure. In response, EU institutions are reviewing contingency protocols and coordination mechanisms with member states.

EU Plans Satellite Defence Enhancements

Following the incident, EU Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius announced plans to deploy additional satellites in low Earth orbit. These new assets will enhance the bloc’s ability to detect and mitigate GPS interference across its territory. Kubilius stressed that improving satellite resilience is essential for both strategic autonomy and operational safety. The initiative reflects a broader effort to safeguard critical infrastructure from external threats.

The European Union is also exploring technical upgrades to existing systems to better identify and respond to jamming attempts. Coordination with aviation safety agencies and cybersecurity experts will be key to implementing these measures effectively. As geopolitical tensions persist, the EU aims to reinforce its navigation capabilities to ensure continuity of operations. The incident involving von der Leyen’s flight has accelerated discussions around satellite security and defence readiness.