GLONASS accuracy could be boosted from nine to two feet by 2020, Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin said at the "Tekhnoprom" forum in Novosibirsk.

"In 2013, our main task was to ensure the stable operation of the GLONASS system, and this has been achieved. Further development of the system implies a fourfold increase in the precision of navigation equipment," Rogozin said.

The GLONASS network, which began its operation in 1993, provides real-time positioning and speed data for surface, sea and airborne objects.

"Accuracy-wise, GLONASS has come close to GPS...Over the years GLONASS' accuracy has increased from 115 to nine feet. We are always striving toward modernization due to the ever-increasing demands of consumers," Rogozin stated.

The deputy prime minister also added that the more he familiarized himself with the Russian navigation system the more "loyal" he became to GLONASS.

The first overseas ground station was launched in Brazil in February 2013. Russia's full-scale plan for GLONASS is to build 50 stations in several dozen countries across the globe. Its accuracy is expected to be boosted to three feet when used within Russia by the end of the year.

Source: RIA Novosti