GPS jamming methods and analysis in unmanned aerial vehicles

GPS (Global Positioning System) jamming is one of the most fundamental methods used to disrupt control signals or data transmissions of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). This method adds broadband noise to the RF (radio frequency) signals that enable communication between the UAV and the control station. This reduces the signal-to-noise ratio, making communication difficult or impossible. This noise cancellation technique can pose a significant risk, especially for autonomous or semi-autonomous UAVs, as these UAVs require less human intervention. By adding noise to the RF signals, it can prevent the UAV from correctly receiving commands sent by the receiver, compromising the UAV's security. Different UAVs may employ different communication technologies and security measures to mitigate the effectiveness of methods such as noise cancellation and GNSS jamming. However, such attacks still pose a serious threat and require continuously evolving defense strategies and technologies to ensure UAV security. This study examines and compares GPS jamming methods in UAVs. The components and operational structure of GPS signal systems are examined. GPS jamming methods were investigated and simulations were conducted for these methods. This thesis examined Noise Jamming, Tone Jamming, Swept Jamming, Follower Jamming, Smart Jamming, and GNSS Jamming. First, all jamming methods were modeled in a simulation environment. Then, the performance of the jamming methods was evaluated in different scenarios. Specifically, GPS and PSD graphs were obtained by varying the jamming coefficients. The movement of a UAV at a specific location was simulated, jamming methods were applied sequentially, and course deviation rates were calculated. In this context, it was observed that Follower Jamming and Noise Jamming had a greater impact on GPS signals than other jamming types.