Traditional Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are subject to intentional or unintentional disturbances in the northern regions of Norway, leading to loss of critical infrastructure. The VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) has been suggested as an alternative source of positioning, navigation and timing (PNT), based on statistical estimates, for maritime applications. However, an empirical investigation into the feasibility of such a contingency-system has only recently become possible after the launch of the NorSat-TD satellite with purpose-designed VDES ranging downlink signal capabilities. This paper presents an analysis of the characteristics of empirical VDE-SAT range measurements and a system-level performance analysis of a GNSS-contingency system based on the empirical ranging data. Using the equated error level of the signal, the positioning performance of simulated autonomous systems of VDE-SAT PNT-sources is analysed, followed by an assessment of the combination of the empirical VDE-SAT range measurements and traditional GNSS measurements in a critical GNSS contingency scenario. In total, 236 VDE-SAT pseudorange observations obtained from eleven satellite passes recorded in July 2023 were used. Residual analysis shows that the range measurements have a standard deviation of 260.8 m. The previously neglected atmospheric propagation effects on a VDE-SAT range measurement are shown to be significant, and the largest effect is likely to be the time-delay due to the ionosphere. The system performance analysis shows that VDE-SAT as a PNT-source could be used as a possible future general navigation backup system, with a positioning accuracy within 1000 m. Finally, an important conclusion is that a contemporary GNSS-contingency system is possible with the measured signal performance, where NorSat-TD acting as a PNT-source can, under the correct geometric conditions, allow a positioning accuracy within 1000 m in combination with partial GNSS coverage at the user. This project was funded by the ESA NAVISP program.