Cybersecurity Challenges in Securing UAVs Connected to Time-Triggered Ethernet (TTE) Networks with GNSS Synchronization inSystem-of-Systems Environments: Insights from the Middle East Conflicts

Abstract

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) integrated into Time-Triggered Ethernet (TTE) networks with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) synchronization represent a critical enabler for System-of-Systems (SoS) architectures in both civilian and military domains. TTE (SAE AS6802) provides deterministic, low-jitter communication essential for real-time coordination in UAV swarms, while GNSS supplies external time synchronization for multi-node SoS interoperability. However, this integration introduces significant cybersecurity vulnerabilities, particularly

GNSS spoofing and jamming, which have been weaponized extensively in the ongoing Middle East conflicts (e.g., Israel–Iran escalations and proxy operations involving the Houthis). This paper examines the current state of cybersecurity in such systems, analyzes real-world impacts of recent Middle East electronic warfare, and proposes mitigation strategies through simulationbased evaluation. A methodology incorporating TTE latency modeling, GNSS spoofing, and a jamming scenario demonstrates performance degradation and recovery techniques, and is complemented by a STRIDE-based threat mapping and an analytical clock-holdover model. Results show that jamming raises mean end-to-end latency from 100.07µs to 109.92µs, produces peaks above 200µs, and lowers packet success from 99.5% to 94.4%, highlighting the need for hybrid synchronization, sensor fusion, and intrusion detection. The work contributes a layered, practical framework suitable for deployment in resource-constrained UAV SoS environments.