In 1962 President John F Kennedy addressed  the West Point graduating class and he said this:

“…..war by guerrillas, subversives, insurgents, assassins, war by ambush instead of by combat; by infiltration, instead of aggression, seeking victory by eroding and exhausting the enemy instead of engaging him…..”

What he said is still very relevant today. Enemy insurgents have turned to attacking communication infrastructure to create chaos and disrupt government communications. This can be in small local areas, regions, and even entire countries. The sad thing is there is little that can be done to stop a determined foe.

In an era dominated by digital communication technologies, the vulnerabilities of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and satellite-based communication systems have become apparent. Instances of communication disruptions, whether due to cyber threats, natural disasters, or deliberate interference, underscore the need for more resilient alternatives. High-frequency (HF) radio, with its ability to transmit over long distances even in challenging conditions, emerges as a robust solution. This blog explores the vulnerabilities of VoIP and satellite communications, citing real-world examples of communication breakdowns and illustrating how HF radio has proven indispensable in restoring connectivity.

The Vulnerabilities of VoIP and Satellite Communications

Dependency on Internet Infrastructure:
VoIP relies heavily on internet infrastructure, making it susceptible to cyberattacks and network failures. A targeted cyber-attack or a widespread outage can disrupt VoIP services, cutting off communication channels when they are needed most.

Satellite Vulnerabilities:
Satellite communication, while offering global coverage, is not immune to disruptions. Natural phenomena like solar flares and geomagnetic storms can interfere with satellite signals, leading to temporary or prolonged communication blackouts.

Limited Redundancy:
Both VoIP and satellite systems may lack redundancy options, leaving users without alternatives when the primary communication channels fail. In times of crisis, having multiple, diverse communication paths is crucial for maintaining connectivity. Try calling your mother using a sat phone when the infrastructure is compromised. Unless your dear old mom has a sat phone you are out of luck.

Real-world Examples of Communication Disruptions

1. Egypt’s Internet Shutdown (2011): During the political uprising in Egypt in 2011, the government imposed a complete internet shutdown, disrupting VoIP services and isolating the country from the global communication network. Citizens turned to alternative means of communication, with HF radio playing a vital role in connecting communities and relaying critical information.

2. Afghanistan
In 2008, Afghanistan’s Communications Minister Amir Zai Sangin stated that over 40 cellular towers had been disabled by the Taliban in that year alone

3. Natural Disasters in Puerto Rico (2017): Following Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, Puerto Rico faced extensive infrastructure damage, affecting satellite communication links. HF radio proved invaluable in restoring communication, allowing emergency responders and residents to coordinate relief efforts in the absence of reliable internet and satellite connections.

4. Niger
in 2019 a catastrophic action cost the lives of 27 Nigerien security force members. It was an attack on cellular towers in the region. This attack completely cut off the only means of communication the security force had.

The list could go on and on.

Why HF Radio Is the Solution

Resilience in Challenging Conditions:
For those that are not privy to what HF radio means here it is in a nutshell. HF radio operates in the high-frequency spectrum, allowing it to propagate over long distances, even in adverse weather conditions or in areas with compromised infrastructure. This resilience makes HF radio a dependable option during emergencies when other communication systems may fail.

It is independent of Internet Infrastructure. Unlike VoIP, HF radio does not rely on internet connectivity, making it less susceptible to cyber threats and network failures. This independence ensures that communication remains available even when internet-based systems are compromised.

HF radio enjoys a community-driven connectivity that is inherently decentralized, allowing communities to establish local communication networks without depending on a centralized infrastructure. This community-driven aspect enhances the reliability and flexibility of HF radio during emergencies. In other words, when cell phones, landlines, and repeaters are all offline, HF will continue to work and work well. I am a Corps member in AmRRON, one of the founders of the SouthEast Emergency Network (SEEN), and a member of Shares (CISA) where I operate an auxiliary HF radio station for DHS.

What You Can Do
If you are not a ham radio operator then of course I would encourage you to look into getting at least a technician license. Having said that there is a great alternative that is becoming very popular and that is getting involved with a local AmRRON group. If you live in Alabama then consider SEEN.  These groups encourage non-hams to get a GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service). It costs 35.00 for ten years and is good for every member of your family and requires no test to be taken. You need to look at the Channel Three Project these groups offer.

Conclusion

While VoIP and satellite communications offer convenience in day-to-day interactions, their vulnerabilities during crises underscore the importance of resilient alternatives. HF radio has proven to be a robust solution in various real-world scenarios, providing reliable communication in the face of internet shutdowns, cyber threats, and natural disasters. As technology continues to advance, recognizing the strengths of HF radio and integrating it into emergency communication strategies will be essential for ensuring connectivity in times of need.

73,
de N4WXI