How to separate sensor sensitivity from navigation accuracy

Navigation claims often combine terms that belong at different layers of a system. Sensitivity describes how a sensor responds to a measured quantity under stated conditions. Accuracy describes how close an estimated value is to a reference. Drift describes change over time. End-to-end position error is a system result. When a source reports an impressive sensor figure, ask what was measured, in which units, over what bandwidth or averaging time, and in what environment. Then ask how that measurement enters a navigation solution.

Preserve the chain

A complete chain runs from sensor output through calibration, time synchronization, fusion, aiding inputs, and a stated position or timing output. Each stage can add uncertainty. A component result may be valuable without answering the final navigation question.

Write the claim at the right layer

Say that a sensor demonstrated a reported sensitivity when that is the evidence. Say that a navigation system achieved a reported accuracy only when the test includes a reference and an error definition. This framing lets public coverage remain clear without diminishing legitimate research progress.