Assured PNT Market Trends

Introduction

As we enter the year 2024, the market for assured positioning, navigation, and timing is undergoing a significant evolution, resulting from a confluence of macro-economic factors. Technological advances, especially in satellite systems and sensors, are reshaping the market to enable more precise and reliable navigation solutions. In parallel, regulatory requirements are intensifying as governments and defense agencies emphasize the need for assured positioning, navigation, and timing in the context of an increasingly complex geopolitical environment. In addition, the growing demand for smart technology and autonomous systems is pushing the market for assured positioning, navigation, and timing into new directions. These trends are of critical importance to stakeholders. They not only highlight emerging opportunities but also underscore the strategic importance of investing in robust PNT solutions to maintain a competitive edge.

Top Trends

1. Increased Demand for Resilient Navigation Systems
   Governments have been concerned about the increasing number of cases of spoofing and jamming of the GPS system. For example, the U.S. Department of Defense has been investing heavily in alternative PNT systems, resulting in a 30 percent increase in the budget for research in this field. Companies have responded to this demand with more robust systems that can operate in contested environments. The next step may be to include artificial intelligence for real-time threat detection.
2. Integration of AI and Machine Learning
   Artificial intelligence and machine learning are a growing part of the assured PNT market, enhancing data processing and decision-making capabilities. These methods are used by companies such as IBM to increase the accuracy and reliability of navigation systems. Artificial intelligence-based solutions have been reported to reduce errors in operations by up to 25%. These technologies are developing and as they do we can expect to see more systems that can operate more independently, correcting errors in real time.
3. Collaboration Between Public and Private Sectors
   A number of private-public companies have also been involved in the Assured PNT programme. For example, Lockheed Martin and the US government have been working together on advanced PNT technology. This collaboration should speed up development, reduce costs and encourage innovation. In the future, it could lead to more standardised solutions for different fields of application.
4. Expansion of Multi-Constellation GNSS
   The use of the global navigation satellite system is becoming more common, offering users increased accuracy and reliability. China and Russia are expanding their satellite systems, which will increase the coverage of the global system. In the field of aviation and maritime navigation, this trend is of paramount importance. Future developments will make it easier to integrate these systems into existing infrastructures.
5. Focus on Cybersecurity in PNT Solutions
   Interconnected PNT systems are a source of increasing concern for cyber security. Reports indicate that cyber-attacks on PNT systems have increased by 40% over the past year. The Raytheon Company, for example, has developed advanced cyber security solutions to protect PNT data. Clearly, the trend is towards greater confidence in PNT systems.
6. Emergence of Quantum Technologies
   Quantum technology is beginning to influence the Assured PNT market, offering unprecedented accuracy and security. Quantum sensors have been developed which, according to research, can increase the accuracy of positioning by an order of magnitude. Companies such as Honeywell are investing in this revolutionary technology. Future applications may include the development of new PNT frameworks based on quantum principles.
7. Increased Use of Autonomous Systems
   The development of the autonomous vehicle is creating a need for accurate time-positioning systems, especially in the transport and defense industries. Safe operation of the vehicle, for example, requires precise guidance. Reports from the industry suggest that the market for autonomous systems will grow significantly, which will require improvements in PNT technology. Future developments may result in more integrated systems that combine different PNT sources.
8. Regulatory Changes and Standardization
   Regulation bodies are increasingly concerned with standardizing PNT solutions to ensure their interoperability and safety. The European Union has set up a framework for harmonizing PNT standards across its member states. This trend is expected to make the operation of multinational companies easier. The establishment of international standards could facilitate cooperation across national borders.
9. Sustainability in PNT Technologies
   In the development of PNT technology, the search for eco-friendly solutions is becoming a priority. Airbus is, for example, looking at ways of reducing the environmental impact of satellite production. Reports suggest that the use of sustainable technologies could reduce carbon footprints by up to 20 per cent. Future trends may see a greater focus on sustainable technology and greater compliance with international sustainable development goals.
10. Advancements in Ground-Based PNT Solutions
    Ground-based PNT systems are gaining ground as a reliable alternative to satellite systems, especially in urban areas. Companies like Trimble are developing more sophisticated ground-based systems to complement GNSS. In some cases, the ground-based systems can improve the accuracy of GNSS by up to 15 percent. Future developments may lead to more integrated systems that combine both satellite and ground-based systems.

Conclusion: Navigating the Assured PNT Landscape

In 2024, the Assured PNT market is characterized by intense competition and significant fragmentation, with both the old and new players competing for market share. Localized solutions will become the trend, as suppliers adapt to the specific local regulatory and operational environment. The established players will continue to rely on their brand names and local presence, while the new players will focus on their innovation capabilities, such as AI, automation and sustainability. The ability to offer flexible and adaptable solutions will be crucial to market leadership. Suppliers will have to invest in these capabilities in order to meet the current demands and also anticipate future changes in the market.