GPS interference disrupts nearly 1,000 ships daily in Strait of Hormuz

Between June 15 and 18, around 970 ships per day experienced GPS signal interference in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, according to Interfax, citing maritime analytics provider Windward.

Experts report that this widespread GPS disruption, coinciding with heightened tensions in the Middle East, has caused Automatic Identification System (AIS) signals to appear in unusual locations such as Iranian ports, the Omani desert, and areas near Dubai.

While the Strait of Hormuz — through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil and gas passes — remains open for commercial traffic, the ongoing electronic interference has raised the risks associated with navigating this critical waterway.

The persistent GPS disruption has resulted in delays, route diversions, and significant adjustments in navigation strategies as shipping companies and stakeholders manage the growing uncertainty.

The peak of the interference occurred on June 17, affecting 1,155 vessels, with the lowest number reported on June 16 at 693 ships.

On June 18 alone, roughly 900 ships faced GPS issues, including at least 120 tankers over 10,000 tonnes deadweight, 27 very large crude carriers (VLCCs), and 24 container vessels, according to Windward.

By Tamilla Hasanova