Other Useful Information
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