On February 3, 2026, the UK Space Agency announced a strategic investment in the TOUCAN (TWSTFT Capability Demonstration) project to enhance the UK’s resilience against potential disruptions to Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS).
Led by GMV in the UK, the initiative marks a significant step in the government’s Framework for Greater Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) Resilience.
The TOUCAN Project: Independent Satellite Timing
The TOUCAN project focuses on the design, development, and testing of a Two-Way Satellite Time and Frequency Transfer (TWSTFT) system. Funded through the European Space Agency’s Navigation Innovation and Support Program (NAVISP), the project aims to deliver a nationally assured timing source that does not rely exclusively on traditional GPS or Galileo signals.
- Secure Timing Links: TOUCAN will establish a secure, independently verifiable timing link between the UK’s Enhanced Long-Range Navigation (eLoran) transmitters and the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), the nation’s official timekeeping authority.
- Vulnerability Mitigation: By diversifying timing sources, the UK ensures that critical infrastructure—including banking, telecommunications, and energy grids—can continue to function even if GNSS signals are jammed, spoofed, or suffer from solar disruptions.
- R&D Timescale Connection: The system will also connect to a facility operating a secure R&D timescale, essential for future synchronization of mission-critical military and civilian systems.
Reinforcing the eLoran Terrestrial Backup
The TOUCAN project is designed to complement the reestablishment of the UK National eLoran program. While satellite-based systems are vulnerable to interference, eLoran uses high-power, low-frequency terrestrial signals that are inherently difficult to disrupt.
“This investment in UK satellite timing through TOUCAN is about more than technology; it’s about protecting the everyday services people and businesses depend on,” stated Dr. Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency. “By working with GMV, the PNT Office, and ESA, we’re helping to build a stronger, more resilient space ecosystem“.
Partnership and Technical Leadership
As the lead contractor, GMV brings deep expertise in system-level engineering and secure time transfer. The project is supported by Viasat, which provides the necessary satellite bandwidth and assists in the analysis of innovative TWSTFT technology evolutions.
The initiative follows a broader £155 million government commitment to harden the UK’s PNT infrastructure, which includes £71 million for the national eLoran program and £68 million for the National Timing Centre (NTC).
