As GNSS denial becomes a baseline condition across military and civilian operations, VIAVI Solutions is building a modular, multi-layered PNT ecosystem that integrates precision timing, inertial navigation, and signal intelligence. With strategic acquisitions and field-proven technology, VIAVI is redefining resilience at the edge, where assurance is not optional, and adaptability is mission-critical.
For Oleg Khaykin, President and CEO of VIAVI Solutions, the company’s recent acquisitions in positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) represent more than tactical expansion—they mark a strategic alignment with the evolving demands of modern defense and infrastructure. In an era marked by contested signals, electronic warfare (EW), and autonomy at the edge, VIAVI is developing a platform that not only withstands disruption but is also engineered to operate through it.
“The acquisition of Jackson Labs Technologies [JLT], combined with Inertial Labs, positions VIAVI as a leader in the resilient PNT space,” Khaykin explained. “We now offer complementary technologies that enable us to provide complete solutions addressing the entire PNT signal chain—from signal generation and distribution to detection and validation.”
This “signal chain” view of PNT is central to VIAVI’s thesis. Inertial Labs contributes leading sensor fusion and visual navigation capabilities. Jackson Labs brings high-performance timing, holdover stability, and signal conversion through its transcoder platform. But what matters most is how“ OUR MISSION IS TO empower the integrator. Everything we do is modular by design.”Jamie Marraccini, Vice President, Inertial Labs Products, VIAVI. These components function as part of a reconfigurable system.
“By bringing together the precision timing technologies of Jackson Labs with the inertial navigation solutions from Inertial Labs, we have created a comprehensive PNT portfolio that few others can match,” Khaykin said. “This is especially important in applications where GNSS signals are degraded or denied.”
Khaykin was direct about the evolving threat environment: GPS signals, once assumed secure, are now routinely denied, spoofed, or degraded—particularly in peer or near-peer conflict zones. “The growing threats to GPS—both accidental and deliberate—require a new approach to PNT,” Khaykin continued.
“VIAVI is addressing this challenge by delivering modular, interoperable, and scalable solutions that support multiple layers of PNT resilience.” This platform mindset builds on VIAVI’s long-standing strengths in test, validation, and network visibility, now applied to navigation and timing environments. “Our heritage in test and measurement means we understand how to ensure performance, reliability, and interoperability in complex systems,” he said. “This gives us a unique advantage as we scale PNT solutions across both defense and commercial applications.”
And while national security applications remain a primary focus, Khaykin noted the demand for resilient, verifiable time and navigation is growing rapidly in civilian sectors as well. “Resilient timing and navigation are becoming essential for critical infrastructure, telecommunications, and emerging autonomy markets,” he said. “VIAVI is building the technology foundation to meet those needs.”
Read more: Inside GNSS Media & Research : May/June 2025
