The United States is losing in the race with China over protecting global positioning satellites, which are crucial for various services. While the U.S. lacks a backup plan for civilians if satellite signals are disrupted, China is moving ahead with advanced timing systems. The U.S. decommissioned its Loran system in 2010, while China upgraded its World War II-era system. Both countries are exploring alternative solutions to secure time and navigation services.
Key Points
Global positioning satellites are vital for various services like telecommunications, emergency services, financial exchanges, and navigation
China is investing in advanced timing systems while the U.S. is lagging behind in protecting key services
Both countries are exploring alternative solutions to secure time and navigation services
Pros
Awareness of the vulnerability of global positioning satellites
Efforts by both the United States and China to secure alternative solutions for time and navigation services
Cons
The U.S. lacks a reliable backup plan for civilians if GPS signals are disrupted
The decommissioning of the Loran system by the U.S. in 2010