Bill calls for GPS alternative

Rep John Garamendi (D-CA) has introduced legislation directing the Department of Defense to create a backup alternative to the Global Positioning System (GPS) for military and civilian purposes. The California Democrat argued that the prevalence of GPS in cellphone use, map systems and military capabilities increases the urgency for a contingency plan in the event of a disruption caused by nature or a terrorist attack. "We are increasingly reliant on the precision, navigation, and timing services that GPS provides. From land navigation on cell phones to a timing source for our national infrastructure, we need a reliable backup system to GPS," he said.

Rep Garamendi's measure would require the alternative system to be able to reach locations inside buildings and underground, and be compatible with the government's unused long-range navigation system infrastructure known as Loran. "This would help first responders and law enforcement more effectively protect the public," Rep Garamendi said. The bill would require the Pentagon to develop a fully operational backup system within three years.