Assessing Cyber Challenges of Maritime Navigation

TLDR

Satellite navigation systems, especially GPS, are a key cyber threat vector for maritime systems, warranting focused attention. The study examines cyber threats and incidents in maritime navigation, emphasizing the need for multiple PNT systems beyond GPS to enhance safety. The authors performed a systematic literature review and analyzed a specific spoofing event, proposing the integration of multiple satellite constellations, eLoran, and laser-based aids to strengthen cyber resilience. Results indicate that a mindset shift and improved manufacturer cybersecurity are essential, and that combining multiple constellations with eLoran and laser aids can substantially reduce vulnerability to cyber attacks.

Abstract

This paper provides a close investigation into the landscape of both cyber threats and actual incidents in the maritime sector, identifying the cyber trends and challenges as they relate to safe navigation and marine shipping. As an important subset of cyber threats that impact many maritime systems, the vulnerabilities of satellite navigation systems, in particular the Global Positioning System (GPS), receive special attention. For this article, a systematic literature review was conducted, complemented by the research and analysis of a specific spoofing event. Analyzing available resources, we might summarize that a shift in mind-set is essential to direct more attention and resources toward cybersecurity as well as the necessity for manufacturers to improve the cybersecurity of their products, as shipping systems currently remain vulnerable to cybercriminals. There is a need for multiple positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) systems onboard maritime vessels to complement GPS-only navigation. The use of multiple satellite navigation constellations, public as well as private, in combination with the terrestrial components of an enhanced LOng-RAnge Navigation (eLoran) system and ports’ laser-based aid system for berthing and docking should provide the shipping industry with the direly needed increased protection from cyber-attackers for the foreseeable future.