Richard Saunders- Kaoshiung
Brad Oliver, a former U.S. Navy engineer and communications expert, is urging Taiwan to establish an island-wide mesh network, warning that one of the first moves China would likely make in an invasion scenario is cutting off the island’s internet and cellular infrastructure. Oliver cautions that Beijing would not only target domestic networks but also sever Taiwan’s underwater cables, the critical lifelines that connect the island to the global internet. Without a resilient backup system, citizens could be left isolated and unable to coordinate in the midst of crisis.
Oliver explains that mesh networks are designed for resilience. Unlike traditional systems that rely on centralized hubs such as cell towers or fiber-optic cables, mesh networks allow each device to act as a node, passing information along to others. This decentralized design eliminates single points of failure and ensures communication can continue even under extreme stress. In disasters ranging from earthquakes to typhoons, conventional infrastructure has repeatedly faltered. Taiwan, he argues, cannot afford to wait until conflict or catastrophe exposes its vulnerabilities.
Preparedness is central to Oliver’s recommendation. If a mesh network is already configured and tested, citizens can begin using it immediately when disaster strikes. Without prior setup, valuable time would be lost troubleshooting connectivity issues while panic spreads. Regular practice is equally important. Familiarity with the system reduces confusion, while drills help identify weaknesses such as coverage gaps, device compatibility problems, or battery limitations. Trust in the system grows with repeated use, making it more likely that people will rely on it when it matters most.
Oliver also stresses the importance of building a core user base. A mesh network only functions if enough nodes are active, and a backbone of reliable participants ensures stability. These core users can act as hubs, relaying information and assisting less experienced participants. In times of crisis, they provide leadership, coordination, and morale — transforming a technical system into a lifeline for communities.
He likens the initiative to fire drills. No one waits until a building is ablaze to figure out where the exits are. By setting up, practising, and building a user base ahead of time, Oliver says Taiwan can ensure its mesh network is trusted, functional, and resilient when the stakes are highest.
