Eglin tests may affect GPS service

EGLIN AFB, Fla. - Ground-based navigation tools and electronic devices or Smartphone apps that rely on Global Positioning System (GPS) technology may be affected during Eglin Air Force Base testing and evaluation April 1-6 in the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay, according a base notice. People living or visiting near Eglin AFB in NW Florida will likely notice increased aircraft noise between 8 a.m. and 12 Noon during the evaluation by the base’s 53rd Weapons Evaluation Group. GPS will resume after testing is completed each day some 20 nautical miles south of Destin in the GoM. Testing will be conducted within a cleared-safety area, which includes boat surveillance. Notices to mariners will be issued before the missions and fliers will be handed out at the local marina. (Source: NW Florida Daily News 03/28/18) These periodic testing and evaluations occur multiple times each year.