Enhancing GNSS Resilience: Benchmarking 3D PNT Simulation Against Real-World Interference-Rich GNSS Environments

Ricardo Verdeguer Moreno*, Miguel Angel Gomez Lopez

Operating in GNSS-degraded or denied environments, particularly those impacted by jamming, can greatly benefit from advanced simulation tools that can accurately replicate real-world signal behaviour. Our research evaluates the fidelity of 3D PNT simulation in modelling GNSS performance under interference-rich conditions by benchmarking it against field-collected data. We conducted controlled field campaigns that recorded GNSS signal metrics, including time-to-first-fix, acquisition time, carrier-to-noise density ratio (C/N₀), navigation errors, and received power levels. These data were collected in diverse environments and under varying interference intensities using a vehicular platform equipped with calibrated instrumentation. The same scenarios were replicated using a high-fidelity 3D PNT simulation engine that integrates terrain models, ray-traced RF propagation, diffraction, and dynamic obscuration. The simulated signal performance was then validated against the empirical dataset to evaluate the realism and limitations of current 3D modeling tools. The results demonstrate strong correlation in performance metrics, validating the use of simulation for pre-deployment resilience assessment. This methodology enables repeatable testing and reduces reliance on costly and logistically demanding field trials. Ultimately, it supports the development of interference-tolerant GNSS solutions across defense, transportation, and critical national infrastructure applications.

Keywords: GNSS, 3D simulation, interference, field testing