MantleMantleFinished approximately three years ago, Global Positioning System, "GPS" allows accurate land-based technology to determine accurate positioning on the face of the earth. This includes latitude, longitude as well as height.
The system was originally intended for military use. Modern battlefield logistics require precise knowledge of location to coordinate the use of both men and machines. GPS can be used to locate and direct ground troops and vehicles for best use. In operation Desert Storm, GPS was used extensively to guide troops through the miles of shifting dunes and desert sandstorms all without landmarks.
Ground-based or air launched ordinance can also be guided by GPS. As long as the coordinates of the target are known, current missile technology allows precise targeting and delivery of the ordinance. Although the military GPS signals are quite accurate, the civilian signals are purposely degraded to prevent access by other countries.
The former Soviet Union has an incomplete system currently operational named GLONASS. There are some receivers on the market that can utilize these signals, but they are no more accurate and there is less geographic coverage.
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