Information on Using GPS Devices in Russia
Note: This information is subject to change without notice
The importation and use of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and
other radio electronic devices are subject to special rules and
regulations in Russia. In general, mapping and natural resource
data collection activities associated with normal commercial and
scientific collaboration may result in seizure of the associated
equipment and/or arrest. The penalty for using a GPS device in a
manner which is determined to compromise Russian National Security
can be a prison term of ten to twenty years.
In December, 1997, an American citizen was imprisoned in Rostov-na-Donu
for ten days on charges of espionage for using a GPS device to check
the efficacy of newly-installed telecommunications equipment. He
and his company believed the GPS had been legally imported and were
not aware that nearby government installations were considered secret.
No traveler should seek to import GPS equipment in any manner
unless it has been properly and fully documented by the traveler
in accordance to the instructions of the Glavgossvyaznadzor and
is declared in full on a customs declaration at the point of entry
to the Russian Federation.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Khabarovsk Radio Frequency Center:
Tel: (4212) 55-38-54
(4212) 51-37-23 (fax)
Vladivostok Radio Frequency Center:
28 Soyuznaya St.
Tel: (4232) 44-62-30
(4232) 44-62-99
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