A1 evolves its mobile network to a sensor detecting disruptions to GNSS satellite signals jointly with Skyfora and Nokia

• Mobile network sites act as sensors to detect disruptions to satellite-based positioning and timing signals (GNSS)
• Detects GNSS signal anomalies that may indicate jamming or spoofing
• Builds on the same technology already used for weather data generation at selected network sites
• Supports situational awareness and resilience for critical infrastructure, authorities and public safety services

A1 is further evolving its mobile network into a data platform by adding a capability to detect interferences affecting Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). In collaboration with Skyfora and Nokia, A1 is using its existing mobile infrastructure as a distributed sensing layer, enabling ground-based visibility of interference affecting satellite-based positioning and timing signals. The capability is currently being tested at selected mobile network sites in Austria and Slovenia.

The new capability builds on the same technological foundation that A1 recently introduced for weather data generation. In both cases, GNSS signals received at mobile network sites are analysed to derive additional insights — ranging from atmospheric conditions to signal anomalies.

From weather sensing to interference detection
While the initial use case focused on improving short-term, local weather forecasting, the same approach also enables the detection of GNSS interference. Satellite-based positioning and timing systems such as GPS, Galileo, GLONASS and BeiDou are essential for navigation, logistics, aviation and telecommunications, as well as for the precise timing that underpins modern digital infrastructure.

Interference - including jamming and spoofing - can affect these systems and disrupt operations across multiple sectors. Jamming refers to the blocking or overwhelming of satellite signals, while spoofing involves transmitting false signals that can mislead positioning or timing systems. By analysing GNSS signal behaviour at fixed network sites and correlating data across locations, A1 can help detect anomalies and identify affected areas in near real-time, generating the basis for high precision geolocation services.

Christian Laqué, CTO of A1 Austria: “We are continuously evolving our network and unlocking capabilities beyond connectivity. By using the same technological foundation that enables weather sensing, we can now also detect GNSS interference and generate valuable insights for critical infrastructure. What matters is that this information is created exactly where it is needed - with high geographical resolution and without requiring additional infrastructure.”

Strengthening resilience for critical infrastructure
With this initiative, A1, Skyfora and Nokia demonstrate how mobile network infrastructure can evolve beyond its traditional role and support multiple data-driven use cases — from weather forecasting to resilience applications — based on a shared technological foundation.

Recent developments in Europe have shown that GNSS interference is becoming increasingly relevant for transport, aviation, defence, logistics and public safety. Reliable positioning and timing are essential for many sectors, making early detection a key element of resilience.

Fredrik Borgström, CEO of Skyfora: “Mobile networks are uniquely positioned to strengthen national resilience. Building on Skyfora’s expertise in GNSS-based atmospheric observations from telecom infrastructure, we are proud to support A1 in turning its network into a ground-based sensing layer for GNSS interference detection in Austria.”

Christoph Rohr, Country Manager at Nokia, adds: “Telecommunication networks are critical infrastructure for our digital society. This initiative demonstrates how existing mobile network technology can go beyond connectivity, providing valuable data-driven insights that enhance resilience and prepare for AI workloads with new applications. We are proud to support A1 with our mobile networks technology to bringing new value creation to life.”