Bornholm has seen a surge in GPS interference, with record numbers of signal disruptions threatening the island’s air and sea navigation systems but not yet causing direct danger.
Increase in Jamming and Spoofing Across Bornholm
Bornholm is experiencing an unprecedented rise in GPS signal interference. Researchers from DTU Space have noted both jamming and spoofing—forms of manipulation of GPS signals—occurring more frequently on the island. According to new data, 16 separate interference incidents have already been recorded at the Tejn Measurement Station in 2025. That is up from 11 cases in 2024 and only two in 2023.
The Tejn station monitors all types of GPS disruptions that affect aviation and maritime traffic around Bornholm. Experts warn that the pattern is worsening every year and could continue into next year.
Impact of the Ukraine War
The increase in signal interference began after the war in Ukraine broke out, according to DTU Space. The conflict has brought new electronic warfare tactics to the Baltic region, and Bornholm’s location in the area makes it especially exposed.
While it remains unclear why the jamming has intensified this year, the effects are being monitored closely. For now, the disruptions are not seen as dangerous, only disruptive. Ships and planes operating around the island still have backup navigation systems in place.
Interestingly, this rise in cyberattacks and signal interference in Denmark mirrors similar technical threats observed elsewhere in the country.
Bornholmslinjen’s Routine Encounters
Captains on the Bornholmslinjen ferry route—connecting Rønne with Ystad and Køge—have also noticed an increase in navigation problems. Captain Kasper Sommer says incidents happen throughout the year but are most common in mid-June, when Denmark’s Folkemødet political festival takes place on Bornholm.
The timing has fueled speculation that groups might intentionally disrupt signals to draw attention during that period. However, ferry crews have established procedures for when GPS fails, and navigation safety remains intact as they rely on radar and traditional methods when necessary.
No Threat to Daily Operations
For the captains, the signal disturbances are more of a nuisance than a danger. So far, they have not affected the ability of ships to reach Bornholm’s ports safely. Crews can switch to alternative navigation systems if GPS data disappears temporarily. Bornholmslinjen has stressed that passengers should not worry about safety or potential disruptions to scheduled departures.
Meanwhile, the Danish Climate Data Agency, which operates several other measuring stations nationwide, confirms that these signal disruptions are concentrated almost entirely around Bornholm. The rest of Denmark has seen little to no similar interference.
Because of that, Bornholm has become a focus of attention among both researchers and security specialists tracking electronic interference in Scandinavian airspace.
Growing Concern Among Researchers
Researchers warn that if the trend continues, GPS spoofing might soon impact more than just navigation. Future concerns involve communications systems, shipping logistics, and even emergency response coordination, all of which depend on satellite-based positioning data.
Despite that, most experts agree that Denmark’s current maritime and aviation procedures keep operations safe. The main objective now is to investigate the cause and prevent escalation.
With Bornholm’s proximity to international waters and its importance as a transport hub in the Baltic Sea, the island remains a strategic and highly monitored area.
Sources and References
The Danish Dream: Denmark Under Siege: Cyberattacks Hit Hospitals, Cities
The Danish Dream: Bornholm’s Round Churches: Circular Mysteries
DR: Bornholmsfærgerne har i år oplevet rekordmange GPS-forstyrrelser
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