Shortwave changing

Shortwave use is changing. 

When I was young, there was a raft of shortwave broadcast stations in multiple languages. Many broadcasters have closed for good as most people now get their information by other means including the internet. Some broadcasters have closed to save costs.  

Also many amateur bands are far quieter as a result of modes like FT8.

No, things are very different today.

People may think of shortwaves as a backup when the internet or satellites are not available. It would not surprise me if the military reserves multiple frequencies.