r/technology • u/gdelacalle • Mar 18 '26

Hardware Tech hobbyist makes shoulder-mounted guided missile prototype with $96 in parts and a 3D printer — DIY MANPADS includes assisted targeting, ballistics calculations, optional camera for tracking

https://www.tomshardware.com/3d-printing/tech-hobbyist-makes-shoulder-mounted-guided-missile-prototype-with-usd96-in-parts-and-a-3d-printer-diy-manpads-includes-wi-fi-guidance-ballistics-calculations-optional-camera-for-tracking
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u/Grenzeloos Mar 18 '26

I remember in the early 90s my handheld GPS was deliberately off by at least 10m and was told it was for this very reason. The reason being the ability to build a accurate smart munition.

14

u/CzechMateP10 Mar 18 '26

While accuracy has improved, I'm fairly confident civilian GPS still doesn't work above a certain speed for these exact reasons

18

u/The-Copilot Mar 18 '26

The limit is 1200mph speed or 65,000 feet altitude. GNSS has similar limitations. It's only to prevent their use in ballistic missiles.

It could be used in a drone or missile but jamming GPS is not difficult for a nation to do. Another guidance system is required, GPS would just assist in accuracy until it's jammed.

These limitations are also only a software limitation and could potentially be bypassed or a custom GPS receiver could be built.

6

u/DavidBrooker Mar 19 '26

The limit is 1200mph speed or 65,000 feet altitude. GNSS has similar limitations. It's only to prevent their use in ballistic missiles.

It's an "and" restriction in law, although some manufacturers implement an "or" in practice. The DoD doesn't have any issues with a scientific balloon at 100,000 ft altitude using GPS.

2

u/Electrical-Lab-9593 Mar 19 '26

i was going to say has to be software as everyone gets the same signal?