Vertical: Mining
Application: Autonomous vehicle control, voice communications, real-time positioning and mapping, remote machinery operation, Callio,
Ecosystem: Nokia, Boldyn Networks
Private Network: 5G
Nokia and Boldyn Networks have deployed a private 5G network at the Callio FutureMINE facility in Pyhäjärvi, Finland, establishing a testing environment for mining innovation technologies. The facility, which operated as a copper mine for over six decades, has been repurposed into a real-world environment where technology companies can validate their equipment.
The deployment addresses one of the most challenging connectivity environments in industrial operations. Underground mining facilities present obstacles including extreme depths, intricate tunnel systems, harsh conditions, and continuous movement of personnel and machinery that make reliable communication difficult.
Boldyn’s solution utilizes Nokia’s Modular Private Wireless (MPW) technology to deliver seamless connectivity across multiple underground levels. The network spans a tunnel system extending several kilometers and reaching depths of up to 1.5 kilometers, providing the high bandwidth and ultra-low latency required for advanced mining applications.
Henrik Kiviniemi, Managing Director at Callio Pyhäjärvi, explained: “At Callio, we’re redefining what’s possible in mining. With the right technology, operations can be fully managed from the surface, making mining not only smarter, but significantly safer. Our mission is to transform this unique 1.5-kilometer-deep site into a world-class testbed where the next generation of automation and safety solutions can be developed and validated.”
The network enables remote operation of autonomous vehicles and machinery from surface locations, reducing the need for personnel to work in hazardous underground conditions. This capability improves worker safety while increasing productivity through minimized downtime and maximized equipment utilization.
Communication systems have been upgraded through replacement of outdated walkie-talkie systems with reliable mobile connectivity. Workers can now communicate clearly across all mine levels, including remote areas and from above ground. This enhancement significantly improves safety protocols, coordination, and response times during critical situations.
The infrastructure powers real-time visualization through software company Cybercube’s integrated 3D mapping and operational control systems. The technology creates a digital twin of the mine that allows teams to monitor personnel, vehicles, and equipment in real time, providing enhanced situational awareness in environments where GPS systems are unavailable.
Aki Ruotsalainen, Director and Partner at Cybercube, noted: “With our software platform, we can visualize and control everything in real time – from people and vehicles to equipment and sensors. It’s a huge leap in safety and operational awareness. Being able to test this in real conditions on a dedicated network has been transformational in the development of our solution.”
Mining technology manufacturer Normet is conducting autonomous vehicle testing at the facility. The company suggests that technical challenges are increasing as mining operations extend to greater depths, making remote operation the safest and most efficient approach.
Mark Ryan, VP of Equipment Offering & New Technology at Normet, stated: “A fully automated future could see 90% of underground workers operating from the surface – but that requires dedicated 5G networks. Open Wi-Fi and shared networks just don’t work reliably underground. You get latency issues, performance drops – so having a private network built for these processes is a must.”
The deployment builds on Boldyn’s acquisition of Finnish private 5G specialist Edzcom, which has become a cornerstone of Boldyn’s Industry 4.0 capabilities. Mining companies are increasingly deploying industrial-grade private 5G networks across multiple sites and international locations.
Jaakko Kuukka, Country Manager Nordics at Boldyn Networks, explained: “The network delivers seamless connectivity and full coverage across multiple underground mining levels. It’s the backbone of Callio’s vision for a fully automated test mine, supporting everything from tele-remote vehicles to real-time control of underground machinery.”
Michael Aspinall, Head of Enterprise Campus Edge sales in Europe at Nokia, commented: “Mining is one of the toughest environments on earth for connectivity, and private 5G is proving to be a game-changer. Together with Boldyn Networks, we are enabling Callio to demonstrate how secure, reliable, and high-performance networks can transform underground operations – making them safer, more sustainable, and more efficient.”
