Exelis successfully tests GPS threat detection product

Signal Sentry™ 1000, an Exelis (NYSE: XLS) product that detects and locates GPS interference sources, was deployed and tested during GPS jamming trials that occurred at Sennybridge, United Kingdom, last month. Signal Sentry 1000 was able to detect and geolocate stationary and moving jammers in both open and obstructed environments.

The trials were managed and administered in the U.K. by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory. Off-the-shelf jamming devices, available to purchase via the Internet, were used during the tests. Testing ranged from stationary jammers to jammers placed in cars driving through open fields and built-up areas at speeds of up to 40 mph. Signal Sentry 1000 successfully detected and located all GPS jamming during the trials.

Exelis developed Signal Sentry 1000 with Chronos Technology Ltd., a U.K.-based company that provides time, timing, phase and alarm monitoring systems for industrial networks. Both Exelis and Chronos participated in the trials in August. “The threat to GPS is being more widely recognized, and we know the risks are increasing,” said Charles Curry, founder and managing director, Chronos. “These tests confirm what we’ve known about Signal Sentry 1000 – it’s a practical solution to solving a real problem." Curry added, “We’re thrilled by the results and feel they are a proof point of the technological innovation driven by Exelis and Chronos.”

Due to the broad availability of low-cost GPS jamming devices on the Internet, the risk associated with signal disruption has increased significantly. GPS jammers are often used by criminals to conceal stolen cars and by commercial drivers who sometimes remain on the road for dangerously long hours. Truckers near shipping ports have been shown to use personal privacy GPS jammers, causing interference with the signal also used to navigate large ships, which severely compromises safe and efficient operation.

“Protecting critical GPS infrastructure is extremely important for public safety,” said Mark Pisani, vice president and general manager of positioning, navigation and timing for Exelis. “With Signal Sentry, we can identify a jammer located in a moving vehicle up to 10-meter (32.8 feet) accuracy. The recent trials at Sennybridge are clear proof that Signal Sentry 1000 is an innovative tool to protect the global utility we call GPS.”

Signal Sentry 1000 is a product that detects and geolocates sources of intentional and unintentional interference to the U.S. GPS signals, and provides actionable intelligence to the user. The system leverages Global Navigation Satellite System, or GNSS, signal domain knowledge and is based upon patented technology developed through the company's history of designing and fielding electronic intelligence systems. Exelis is a global leader in providing advanced intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.

As part of the Exelis ISR and Analytics strategic growth platform, Exelis will showcase Signal Sentry in booth #619/621 at the ION GNSS+ conference Sept. 8-12 in Tampa, Fla.

About Exelis

Exelis is a diversified, top-tier global aerospace, defense, information and services company that leverages a 50-year legacy of deep customer knowledge and technical expertise to deliver affordable, mission-critical solutions for global customers. We are a leader in positioning and navigation, sensors, air traffic management solutions, image processing and distribution, communications and information systems; and focused on strategic growth in the areas of critical networks, ISR and analytics, electronic warfare and composite aerostructures. Headquartered in McLean, Va., Exelis employs about 17,000 people and generated 2013 sales of $4.8 billion. For more information, visit our website at www.exelisinc.com or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.