This paper presents the results of a research project that investigated the potential benefits of a combined Galileo/GPS navigation system. The research addressed in detail the two key required navigation performance (RNP) parameters of accuracy and integrity. The project was supported by Alcatel Space and was a contribution to the Galileo definition studies (supported by the European Community under the GALA project). The results show significant improvements in both accuracy and integrity (achievable through RAIM) when a combined constellation is used rather than Galileo alone.

This paper describes selective tests performed in the areas of Gdansk and Gdynia VTS Centres. The main goal of the tests was to determine the accuracy of position, speed and course estimations measured by shore-based radar VTS tracking systems by using measurements of the same parameters available on board a tracked vessel equipped with GPS and GLONASS receivers. Six DGPS/GPS/GLONASS receivers were installed on board a survey vessel, and all of them recorded the vessel's route simultaneously with two different VTS radars – one at Gdansk and one at Gdynia (20 km apart). All DGPS receivers tracked the same reference station. Presented results show that the radar information can be used by VTS operators to provide navigation assistance within certain limits, but these limits must be understood. A more detailed description of the experiment was presented during the IALA Conference in Hamburg in June 1998.