The first development phase of this contract is up until 2010, and will build upon existing successes and provide a focus for a European agreement on eLoran service provision. The operational phase will then start from 2010 onwards. The UK Department of Transport is sharing the costs during the development phase, having recognised the broader potential of Loran to improve the resilience of critical transport infrastructure.

The GLA's director of research and radionavigation, Dr Sally Basker said, 'Over the last decade we have worked hard to reduce the overall cost of service provision by 50% in real terms. e-Navigation is the maritime sector’s future: berth to berth navigation in the digital world with its associated safety, security, environmental and economic benefits. As we press ahead with e-Navigation, eLoran provides the only way of maintaining our service levels until 2020 without undue increase in cost or risk. eLoran will help us to deliver a reliable, efficient and cost-effective Aids to Navigation service for the benefit and safety of all mariners”.