A second Global Positioning System (GPS) Week Number Rollover event is scheduled for 15 May 2022. When the rollover occurs, the GPS units of some manufacturers will display erroneous date information and communication functions will not work properly. Navigation and communication equipment may be affected. Stand-alone GPS receivers and equipment using GPS chips could produce data that is 19.6 years in the past (29 September 2002), resulting in positioning instability and position errors (e.g., GPS position acquisition failure, etc.).
The positional fix can be restored by carrying out a cold start on some units. The cold start will not, however, resolve the incorrect date. To fix this issue, GPS manufacturers must carry out a software update. In some cases, the GPS unit may need to be replaced with a newer model.
Potential actions includes:
- contact GPS manufacturers to determine if the equipment onboard their vessels will require a service technician to update the software; and rectify the GPS equipment issue at the first available opportunity, but no later than 31 August 2022.
- make appropriate entries in the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System and Deck Log Books; and keep boarding pilots and port State control advised if the discrepancy exists on your vessels.
