Midland Operators Participated in National Radio Drill
Three local amateur radio enthusiasts joined a nationwide exercise to test emergency communication networks.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Safety
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Three Midland amateur radio operators took part in the Obsidian Wave 1 communications drill. The four-hour exercise tested radio protocols designed to function independently during a simulated power-grid failure.
Why it matters
This exercise aims to build a robust communications system capable of operating without an electrical grid. Such efforts are increasingly prioritized to prevent isolation during large-scale infrastructure failures.
The Obsidian Wave 1 exercise involved 50 operators across the U.S. and Puerto Rico during a four-hour window. This drill is part of a recurring series held every 9 to 12 months to maintain operational readiness.
The players
Don Rolph
He coordinated the exercise through the American Radio Relay League's National Traffic System 2.0 Digital Task Force.
American Radio Relay League
This national association of amateur radio operators represents the interests of amateur radio in the United States.
The details
Operators received and relayed simulated messages using high-frequency and very-high-frequency radio equipment. The Midland team maintains readiness by practicing message relay protocols on a weekly basis.
Timeline
Sept. 19, 2026: The Obsidian Wave 1 exercise took place.
Weekly: Radio operators practice sending messages.
Every 9 to 12 months: Nationwide exercises are held.
Last year: A nationwide blackout in Spain occurred.
Seasonal Patterns
The exercise follows a pattern set by the nationwide blackout in Spain, highlighting the global reliance on grid-independent communication systems. These drills reflect a broader trend of preparing for infrastructure instability.
Residents should understand that these operators provide a backup communication channel if the power grid fails. Knowing that local hobbyists are trained in emergency protocols can assist in neighborhood contingency planning.
The takeaway
Amateur radio networks serve as a critical secondary infrastructure layer during power outages. Practicing message relay protocols ensures that essential information can still circulate when standard systems fail.
Further reading
For more on local emergency preparedness, visit Safety.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Midland Daily News.
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