**Drivers in Wales Face Potential GPS Disruption During Military Test**
Motorists, aviation professionals, and drone operators across Wales are being urged to prepare for potential disruption to their GPS and navigation systems this week, as the Ministry of Defence (MoD) commences a significant electronic warfare exercise. The operation, which is part of a scheduled programme of military testing, centres on the Sennybridge Training Area in Powys and may have far-reaching implications for both ground and air navigation.
The planned activity, running from Monday, 16 June to Friday, 20 June between the hours of 8am and 5pm, involves the deliberate jamming of radio frequencies. These frequencies are vital for the accurate functioning of GPS-based navigation tools commonly used across various sectors—including personal vehicles, aviation, and unmanned aerial systems. The move is designed to simulate the impact of hostile attempts to disrupt satellite-guided equipment, a growing concern in today’s global security environment.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has responded swiftly to the MoD’s announcement by issuing official warnings that cover a substantial expanse of mid and south Wales. The CAA alerts even indicate potential GPS interference across regions as far south as Devon and Cornwall. These advisories are particularly vital for pilots, commercial airlines, and drone operators, as signal disruption could extend to altitudes of up to 40,000 feet—a level routinely traversed by commercial airliners.
Support, Resource and Charitable Services (SARS Cymru), a local organisation, has further warned that a number of communities could experience either intermittent or complete loss of GPS signal. Impacted areas listed include Tenby, Narberth, St Clears, Carmarthen, Kidwelly, Llanelli, Mumbles, and Swansea. Residents and businesses in these areas are being urged to plan journeys with care and remain aware of possible navigation difficulties.
The MoD exercise, known as Exercise Rock Lobster, is part of a broader effort to bolster the United Kingdom’s ability to defend against the threat posed by modern weaponry—particularly unmanned aerial vehicles that rely on satellite navigation. Experts have linked the increased urgency for tests like these to shifting security dynamics following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which drove home the necessity for advanced electronic countermeasures.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry, an MoD spokesperson underlined the significance of this week’s activities, explaining: “We are conducting crucial electronic warfare testing at Sennybridge range this week to strengthen our defensive capabilities against drone threats. We have issued advance warnings through official channels including the Civil Aviation Authority.” This assurance is intended to help mitigate risks to public safety and reduce confusion among those who might suddenly lose access to reliable GPS.
Already, there is growing anticipation among both local authorities and the public for updates as the testing unfolds. Emergency services, logistics operators, and technology-dependent sectors are amongst those keeping a close watch on the situation. The MoD, along with the CAA, are expected to provide ongoing information should residents experience more significant disruption than forewarned.
It is also a reminder of how vital satellite-based navigation systems have become to everyday life in the UK. From personal mobile devices and in-car navigation to critical infrastructure operated by aviation and shipping industries, a widespread loss of GPS signal, even temporarily, serves as a stark lesson about the potential vulnerabilities of modern technology.
Members of the Welsh public are being encouraged not only to plan ahead for possible delays, but also to consider traditional navigation methods should their electronic devices fail. In an increasingly digital age, exercises like this highlight the evolving complexities of national defence—and the importance of transparent communication between military, government bodies, and civilians.
As Wales temporarily becomes a testing ground for cutting-edge defence initiatives, officials are eager to emphasise the crucial nature of these precautions while acknowledging any inconvenience caused. The operation is expected to conclude at the end of the week, after which an assessment of the impact and effectiveness of the exercise will be conducted.