MNSA M-Code Testing in Defense Applications

Problem We Solve

Public Law 111-383, Section 913 requires all military GPSGlobal Positioning System is a navigation satellite system. See also user equipment purchased after FY 2017 to be M-Code capable, unless a waiver is issued by the Secretay of Defense.

Currently there are two GPS security architectures – and both are available only to authorized users. The first, Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM), has been required for all newly fielded DoD GPS systems as of October 2006. It uses the GPS Precise Position Service, which is provided using encrypted signals (P(Y) Code) on two frequencies – L1 (1575.42MHz) and L2(1227.6MHz).

​MGUE is the second one, utilizing the M-Code signals. As one aspect of the GPS modernization program, M-Code is also an encrypted signal provided on L1 and L2 frequencies.

Why it is Important

Field testing GPS receivers to determine their performance and vulnerabilities in degraded or competing environments is standard practice.

Safran’s simulation solutions deliver the confidence of knowing how your critical systems will perform across a wide variety of GPS/GNSS signal and PNTPosition, Navigation, and Timing: PNT and map data combine to create the GPS service. data limitations, outages, interference and environmental factors. The more you know, the better you can plan for continuous operations.

M-Code offers several operational benefits over the previous P(Y) code signals.

​Jamming Resistance – Using spot beams from the GPS III satellites, M-Code will be delivered to specific regions through a high gain antenna, improving the power level available to the receivers on the ground within those regions.

Blue Force Electronic Attack Compatibility – Due to the modulation type of the M-Code signal, it is possible to purposely jam the commercial GPS L1 C/A signal while continuing to receive and use the M-Code signal. M-Code can also be acquired without the use of C/A code, so there is no reliance on non-military signals.

Anti-Spoof – Not only is the M-Code signal encrypted, MGUE is also able to detect and reject false signals.

Being able to test that you’re receiving these benefits is essential to ensuring your success in critical environments.

How We Solve it

Utilizing Safran’s Skydel Simulation Engine, Safran Federal Systems’ BroadSim product line was developed to simplify the creation of advanced jamming and spoofing scenarios with Navigation Warfare (NAVWARNavigational Warfare See also) testing in mind. BroadSim supports high dynamics, jamming, spoofing, and encrypted military codes.

We offer four base products through the BroadSim product line but can configure a multitude of different options and packages depending on your need.

BroadSim – BroadSim is able to simultaneously simulate multiple constellations including: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, and QZSSQZSS is a regional satellite system in the Asia/Pacific Region. Developed and maintained by the Japanese government, this satellite constellation provides similar services as GPS: location, navigation and timing.. With high performing hardware, a robust and innovative software engine, and an intuitive user interface, BroadSim is driving innovation in GNSSGlobal navigation satellite system (GNSS): A general term describing any satellite constellation that provides positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services on a global or regional basis. See also simulation, with technology that outperforms and exceeds typical features.

BroadSim Solo – As the newest member of the BroadSim family, this solution was developed to bring advanced GNSS scenario creation to your desk and propel development cycles. BroadSim Solo shares the same software-defined benefits as the rest of the BroadSim family such as the ablity to simulate multiple constellations including AES M-Code, an intuitive user interface, high-dynamics, innovative features and ultra-low latency. BroadSim Solo’s compact form factor fits nicely at your desk or workstation without taking it over.

BroadSim Anechoic – Allows users to accurately simulate real-world GNSS environments in their Anechoic Chambers. BroadSim Anechoic has 32 individual RF outputs enabling the system to drive 16 dual-frequency antennas. Revolutionary features like automatic antenna mapping, automatic time delay calibration, and automatic power loss calibration are what make BroadSim Anechoic the most advanced Anechoic Chamber simulator on the market today.

BroadSim Wavefront – This software-defined system was designed for multi-element antenna testing like CRPA’s, calibrating GNSS frequencies in a matter of seconds, and simulating spoofers, jammers, repeaters, and alternate PNT sensors with just a few clicks.

Why Choose Us

With multiple configurations and options available, we can built to the specifications of your projects. There are a number of benefits we can integrate depending on which system is necessary for you:

• Automatically adjust the signal power of any code type for the satellites in your scenario, no upgrade required.
• Experience limit-defying real-time performance with an ultra-low latency of 5ms.
• Unlimited # of jamming signals generated on 1 RF output
• Calculates the jamming power at the receiver based on the location
  and jamming parameters.
• Antenna mapping, Time Delay and Power Loss Calibration.
• The 48dB transmit chain amplifier and 80dB transmit chain dial attenuator allow for complete signal control and high dynamic range.
• Scalable from 4-16 elements at 600+ signals per element and 1,000 Hz iteration rate.
• All-in-view simulation.

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