The United States developed GPS, yet under the Biden administration, we seem to be ceding significant technological ground to China, which could lead to troubling outcomes. If President Trump returns to power, there might be a chance to change direction and bolster our economy and national defense.
GPS is crucial. It’s woven into almost everything—from ATMs to the logistics of Amazon delivery, military strategies, and even the daily operations of farmers. Satellite navigation has become essential for contemporary life. However, there’s a glaring vulnerability: we lack any backup systems. Just one solar flare, a signal blockage, or a cyber attack could render it inoperable. This kind of disruption could cripple supply chains, halt air travel, and, frankly, endanger American lives.
During his first term, Trump made significant strides in 5G development, and we now need to replicate that success with GPS.
The Chinese Communist Party recognizes this. While the U.S. was preoccupied, China constructed a backup for GPS—though it’s a bit outdated, rooted in World War II era technology. This ground system, while not glamorous, is effective, and it currently puts China ahead.
The U.S. now stands at a crossroads: should we mimic China’s outdated strategies or choose a path of innovation?
In a recent interview, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr expressed concern about America’s deepening ties with China during Biden’s presidency. He pointed out that Trump’s administration had a clear vision for American leadership in technology, particularly in 5G; he believes we are poised for similar progress again.
And he’s right. We can’t afford to ignore the past. Trump’s term saw a significant leap over China with 5G; now, we need to take that energy and focus on GPS.
This process should begin with implementing a 5G-based backup for GPS. Unlike China’s cumbersome system, American solutions harness innovative technology to create diverse, reliable alternatives using existing infrastructure. By the end of Trump’s time in office, the private sector was already prepared to roll this out.
To think about it, it’s rather straightforward and completely American-made.
Not everyone supports this direction. Some policy advocates, surprisingly, appear to lean towards the Chinese model. This isn’t just a misconception—they might have deeper motivations.
Recently, a report highlighted how a coalition of anti-Trump groups and entities connected to China have actively tried to obstruct advancements in GPS backup technology. One such organization, the Resilient Navigation and Timing Foundation, vocalizes opposition to 5G solutions, and, notably, they are linked to a company that played a role in developing the Chinese Eroran network.
These aren’t simply alternative policy ideas; they represent coordinated efforts to keep the U.S. vulnerable.
In the past, America didn’t win the Cold War by merely upgrading existing technologies. We innovated with new technologies like stealth bombers and drones. This principle should similarly guide our approach to GPS: it’s about looking forward, not just building on what’s already there.
Recent steps by Carr and the FCC aim to explore alternatives in positioning, navigation, and timing technology, harking back to a bipartisan law signed by Trump to enhance GPS resilience. Senator Ted Cruz has called this initiative essential for both national and economic security.
This pioneering initiative, established during Trump’s term, set a crucial benchmark. Now, it’s time to act.
We’re faced with a definitive choice. One route means adapting to the outdated infrastructure of the Chinese Communist Party. The alternative is to tap into American creativity, paving the way for innovation and security through the private sector, building on the vision set during Trump’s administration.
Let’s push forward rather than fall back. It’s time for America to lead again.
