North Korea has disrupted GPS signals from its border areas for the second consecutive day, affecting dozens of civilian aircraft and vessels, South Korean military officials said Saturday, marking the latest escalation in tensions between the rival nations.
The Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that North Korean operations to manipulate GPS signals were detected from the western border city of Kaesong and nearby Haeju on Friday and Saturday. While military officials did not specify the technical methods used or detail the full extent of disruptions, they confirmed multiple civilian transportation systems were impacted.
“We urge North Korea to stop GPS interference provocations immediately and strongly warn that it will be held fully accountable for any resulting consequences,” the Joint Chiefs said in a statement.
The electronic warfare comes amid heightened regional tensions as North Korean leader Kim Jong-un continues to showcase his advancing nuclear and missile programs. Recent provocations have included launching thousands of balloons carrying trash and anti-South Korean propaganda leaflets across the border.
South Korean authorities have issued warnings to aircraft and vessels operating near western border areas but have not disclosed specific numbers of affected craft or the severity of the disruptions.
independent.co.uk
