How GPS Powers the Global Financial System and Why It’s at Risk
A single point of failure could bring the global economy to its knees. Here’s what you need to know.
The Global Positioning System, or GPS, is often taken for granted as a simple tool for navigation, helping us find our way from point A to point B. However, GPS is far more than just a convenience; it is a critical infrastructure that powers everything from financial transactions to global communications and transportation systems. Despite its importance, GPS is surprisingly vulnerable to disruptions that could have catastrophic consequences.
Together we will explore how GPS supports the global financial system, the risks it faces, and the growing global competition over this indispensable technology. The future of GPS is uncertain, and the questions we must answer are more pressing than ever.
1 What is GPS and How Does It Work?
Introduction to GPS
The Global Positioning System, commonly known as GPS, is something many people associate with maps, directions, and location services on their phones. However, GPS is far more than just a tool for finding the quickest route to a destination. Developed by the U.S. Department of Defense in the…