European Space Agency (ESA), in a move to strengthen the reliability of satellite navigation systems, has collaborated with Leonardo to explore advanced antenna technologies and machine learning (ML) solutions. The project aims to combat growing threats such as GNSS jamming and spoofing, which can disrupt critical satellite-based positioning services.

At the heart of the initiative is the development of Controlled Reception Pattern Antennas (CRPAs) — intelligent antennas capable of focusing on desired satellite signals while dynamically rejecting interference from other directions. Unlike traditional omnidirectional antennas, CRPAs leverage beamforming to isolate and amplify signal sources, making them a promising defense against deliberate signal manipulation.

“By combining our expertise with Leonardo’s advanced technologies, we are reinforcing our commitment to resilient, interference-resistant satellite navigation of the future,” said Marco Falcone, Head of the Future Navigation Department at ESA.

Leonardo will further investigate ways to reduce the size and weight of antenna arrays by minimizing the spacing between antenna elements, a critical improvement for applications in aerospace and space-constrained environments such as aircraft. Additionally, ML algorithms will be explored to optimize antenna configurations in real time, potentially accelerating the responsiveness and intelligence of satellite navigation systems.

This research is part of ESA’s Navigation Innovation Support Programme (NAVISP) and will culminate in the development of a real-time receiver demonstrator. The goal is to reach a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 within two years, meaning the technology will be successfully tested in a laboratory environment. A key component of the project includes comparing this new, compact CRPA-based system with conventional, bulkier antenna arrays.

The agreement with Leonardo was officially signed at the Paris Air Show in Le Bourget, with ELT Group also named as a subcontractor on the project. With the increasing reliance on GNSS in both civilian and defense applications, this initiative marks a significant step forward in securing the future of satellite-based navigation in a world of growing signal interference threats.

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