Satellite navigation systems such as GPS or other Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) are essential for modern military operations, maritime activities, aviation and many civilian services. As the electromagnetic environment becomes increasingly complex and contested, the ability to detect, characterize and understand GNSS interference has become an important element of NATO’s operational resilience.
To address this challenge, NCIA developed GANDALF, Ground-based Asset designed and built by NCIA for Direction and Location Finding), an experimental system capable of detecting, classifying and locating sources of GNSS interference. The system has already undergone extensive testing in controlled environments in collaboration with the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA). The latest campaign marked another important step by evaluating the system in real operational conditions. This GANDLAF campaign builds on the successful flight trials conducted with the Finnish Defence Forces aboard an NH90 helicopter in 2025 and expands the operational evaluation to additional maritime and airborne platforms. The data collected enabled the validation of previous findings, the gathering of new operational data and continued refining of the system under representative conditions.
"GANDALF was built step by step through continuous experimentation. Every workshop activity, laboratory integration, verification campaign and field deployment has contributed to transforming innovative concepts into a coherent operational demonstrator,” explained the GANDALF-4 Technical Leader from NCIA.
In parallel with GANDALF, NCIA also evaluated its latest Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna (CRPA) technology, designed to help navigation systems continue operating even when satellite signals are jammed. Together, these complementary technologies strengthen navigation resilience and enhance situational awareness.
The campaign highlights the close collaboration between NCIA, the Finnish Border Guard and the Finnish Defence Forces. By combining technical expertise, operational knowledge and access to representative platforms, the partners created an optimal environment for evaluating emerging technologies while strengthening cooperation between NATO and Nations.
As GNSS resilience becomes increasingly important for NATO and Allies, initiatives such as GANDALF demonstrate the value of multinational cooperation, operational experimentation and innovative approaches to capability development and delivery. Through projects that connect operational requirements with technological solutions, NCIA continues to strengthen NATO’s ability to operate effectively in complex and contested environments.
