Smart mining moved a step closer to reality with the announcement that Ericsson and Rogers Communications are deploying a private 5G network at an operational test mine in Canada. This initiative is one of several examples demonstrating how advanced digital connectivity is poised to transform the mining industry in the coming years.
The ability to deploy a reliable cellular network at an active underground test site highlights the growing need to raise communication standards across the sector. As mines become deeper, more automated, and increasingly data-driven, robust and resilient connectivity is no longer optional.
The connectivity test project is taking place at the NORCAT Underground Centre in Sudbury, Ontario—a globally recognized facility used by mining companies, equipment manufacturers, and technology providers to test new systems before live deployment. Through the implementation of a private 5G network, Ericsson and Rogers aim to demonstrate that next-generation connectivity solutions are well suited for underground mining environments, enabling automation, real-time data transmission, and safer working conditions.
Underground 5G Network Rooted in a 2022 Collaboration
The project traces its origins back to 2022, when Ericsson, Rogers, and NORCAT began collaborating to explore how modern wireless technologies could be applied in mining environments. At the time, the mining industry had become increasingly vocal about the limitations of traditional Wi-Fi and radio communications, particularly in deep underground settings where latency, signal strength, and bandwidth often degrade.
The collaboration initially focused on determining whether a private cellular system could deliver reliable, high-capacity communications in tunnels and stopes while supporting multiple applications simultaneously. Early testing centered on basic connectivity and equipment integration, laying the groundwork for more advanced use cases. Over the past three years, the scope has expanded to include a wide range of sensors, machinery, and control systems for evaluation.
The Growing Importance of Connectivity in Modern Mining
Reliable underground networks have become essential as mining operations adopt digital solutions at scale. Sensors monitoring ground stability, air quality, and equipment condition rely on dependable connectivity to transmit data in real time. At the same time, mine operations centers—often located far from the physical site—require stable networks to monitor conditions and respond effectively.
In this context, smart mining extends beyond automation to include system integration. By connecting people, machines, and data on a common platform, operators can make faster and more informed decisions. Analysts suggest that this integrated approach can reduce downtime, enhance safety, and lower operational costs.
A core objective of the NORCAT project is to demonstrate where and how these benefits can be realized. Unlike public networks, a private cellular network allows operators to retain full control over performance, security, and coverage—an especially important consideration in remote mining locations with limited external infrastructure.
Current Progress and Early Results
Recent updates indicate that the network is now fully operational across critical areas of the underground test facility. Equipment manufacturers and mining companies have begun testing autonomous loaders, drilling systems, and inspection robots using the network. High-definition video streaming from underground equipment has also been successfully demonstrated.
Engineers involved in the project emphasize low latency as a key factor enabling precise remote control of machinery. This capability has the potential to significantly reduce the number of personnel required underground, particularly in high-risk areas. Preliminary results show that the 5G solution outperforms conventional Wi-Fi networks, especially in complex underground layouts where vehicles and machines follow intricate routes.
The project also supports research into interoperability, allowing equipment from different manufacturers to operate on a single network. This is a critical consideration for mine operators seeking flexibility and avoiding dependence on a single vendor.
Implications for the Global Mining Sector
While the deployment is currently limited to a test facility, its implications extend well beyond Canada. Mining companies worldwide are closely monitoring these developments as they evaluate investments in advanced connectivity infrastructure. As ore bodies become deeper and more remote, future mining operations will increasingly depend on high-performance communication networks.
Private cellular networks are rapidly becoming a foundational element of smart mining strategies rather than an afterthought. The success of the NORCAT project could accelerate adoption in both new developments and existing mines undergoing technological upgrades. For Ericsson and Rogers, the initiative illustrates how telecommunications expertise can be applied in heavy industrial environments. For the mining industry, it offers a glimpse into what operations may look like over the next decade—where underground connectivity, once a major constraint, becomes a powerful enabler.
