Europe’s Galileo satellite navigation system is at risk of US interference because it uses US-manufactured components that are export controlled, says its manager-designate. Günter Stamerjohanns is chief executive of Galileo Industries, which is establishing Galileo’s infrastructure and will manage it. Stamerjohanns says the risk stems from the fact that the Galileo satellites rely on parts subject to US International Trafficking of Arms Regulations (ITAR). He points out that “we have lots of components from the USA” that are already covered by ITAR and he is fearful that the scope of ITAR could be extended to include others.
Source: Flight International