Starlink PNT For SOF: How Proliferated Low Earth Orbit Satellite Constellations Can Increase Operational Resilience in GPS Degraded Environments

This research seeks to determine the capabilities and limitations of Starlink position, navigation and timing (PNT) capabilities to inform how Special Operations Forces can utilize proliferated Low Earth Orbit satellite constellations to create a more robust and resilient PNT primary, alternate, contingency, and emergency (PACE) plan. The pertinence of this research is underscored by the escalating threats to GPS integrity, which pose significant risks to military navigation systems. Key findings suggest that while Starlink PNT is less capable than GPS, especially in mobile contexts, it is operationally relevant in static contexts where GPS is denied, and position data is critical. Additionally, Starlink PNT offers cost-effective resiliency due to Starlink terminals already being deployed across the military as alternative communications systems. This thesis recommends the addition of Starlink PNT data from existing Starlink communication terminals to bolster the PNT PACE plan, providing a low-cost enhancement to operational resilience in the face of GPS vulnerabilities.