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U.S. Makes Plans for GPS Shutdown

Posted by michael on from the dead-reckoning dept.

sailforsingapore writes "Apparently, President Bush is drawing up plans to disable sections of the GPS network in the event of a terrorist attack. The rationale seems to be that it would prevent said terrorists from using the GPS system to direct some sort of attack. The plan would shut down access not only to the GPS satellite network, but projects like the EU's Galileo. Ironically, this comes alongside the President's plan to strengthen the GPS network against deliberate jamming."

2 of 945 comments (clear)

  1. Existing capability? by thatguywhoiam · · Score: 4, Interesting
    I thought they could shut down the GPS in sections at will already? Didn't they do this when they invaded Iraq (er, 2nd time)?

    When Clinton allowed for more accurate GPS signals to be used by civilians, it sure seemed like they just flipped a switch one day and it was suddenly more accurate for everyone...

    --
    If Jesus wants me it knows where to find me.
  2. "Terrorists" by Afty0r · · Score: 5, Interesting

    Terrorists tend to be very clever, sly and intelligent people. They work with limited resources, frequently in enemy territory against a much larger force.

    Terrorists will not rely on GPS.
    The military is increasing its' reliance on GPS.
    therefore
    Shutting down the GPS will have no negative effect on the terrorists, but will hamper the military (and probably civil emergency efforts too).

    Finally, if the terrorists do mount an attack on us that somehow utilises GPS, it is unlikely we will know about it until after it has happened.