GPS versus Galileo

This study investigates Europe's motives to develop the independent satellite navigation system known as Galileo despite the existence of America's successful global positioning system (GPS). The author contends that Europe's pursuit of Galileo is driven by a combination of reasons including performance independence and economic incentive. With Galileo Europe hopes to achieve political security and technological independence from the United States. Additionally Europe envisions overcoming the US monopoly on GNSS by seizing a sizable share of the expanding GNSS market and setting a new world standard for satellite navigation. Finally the author explores Galileo's impact on the United States and reviews US policy towards Galileo. The study concludes with recommendations to strengthen the competitiveness of GPS. (Originally published by Air University Press)