Nokia and Boldyn Networks deploy private 5G at Callio FutureMINE to revolutionize safety and automation in underground mining

Nokia and Boldyn Networks deploy private 5G at Callio FutureMINE to revolutionize safety and automation in underground mining

(IN BRIEF) Nokia and Boldyn Networks have deployed a private 5G network at Callio FutureMINE in Pyhäjärvi, Finland, converting one of Europe’s deepest mines into a testbed for next-generation mining innovation. The network, powered by Nokia’s Modular Private Wireless and designed by Boldyn, delivers high-bandwidth, ultra-low-latency connectivity across multiple underground levels, supporting tele-remote machinery, autonomous vehicles, advanced communications, and real-time digital twins. Technology firms including Cybercube and Normet are already testing solutions that improve safety, efficiency, and automation, with the goal of shifting most underground workforces to surface-based operations. Executives from Callio, Boldyn, and Nokia emphasized that private 5G is uniquely suited to meet the extreme challenges of mining, offering a path toward safer, smarter, and more sustainable operations worldwide.

(PRESS RELEASE) ESPOO, 24-Sep-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Nokia and Boldyn Networks have deployed a private 5G network at Callio FutureMINE, one of Europe’s deepest underground sites, redefining how technology can shape the future of mining. Located 1.5 kilometers below ground, the former copper mine is now a unique research and innovation hub where companies can test and validate advanced solutions in real-world mining conditions.

Mines present some of the toughest challenges for connectivity, from extreme depths and complex tunnel systems to the constant movement of heavy machinery and personnel. The private 5G solution—engineered by Boldyn and powered by Nokia’s Modular Private Wireless (MPW)—delivers seamless coverage across kilometers of underground tunnels, providing high bandwidth and ultra-low latency that conventional networks cannot match. This enables full digital visibility, real-time data transfer, and advanced automation at unprecedented scale.

“With this network, mining operations can be managed remotely from the surface, making work smarter and significantly safer,” said Henrik Kiviniemi, Managing Director of Callio Pyhäjärvi. “Our vision is to turn this unique mine into a world-class test environment where next-generation automation, safety, and digital solutions are developed and validated.”

The network is already powering multiple innovations at the site:

• Autonomous and tele-remote vehicles: Equipment can now be operated safely from above ground, reducing risks to workers while boosting efficiency and minimizing downtime.
• Advanced communications: The 5G network replaces outdated walkie-talkies with always-on, crystal-clear mobile connectivity across every level of the mine.
• Digital twins and real-time mapping: Cybercube is testing 3D visualization and positioning tools that create a live digital twin of the mine, tracking people, vehicles, and equipment while enabling instant evacuation alerts and safer emergency response.
• Next-gen mining equipment: Normet, a global mining technology leader, is trialing autonomous vehicles that demonstrate how dedicated private 5G enables automation where Wi-Fi and shared networks fall short.

“The challenges in mining only increase as operations go deeper,” said Mark Ryan, VP of Equipment Offering & New Technology at Normet. “The safest and most efficient solution is removing people from hazardous areas and operating remotely. That requires robust private 5G networks purpose-built for these environments.”

Boldyn Networks highlighted the transformative potential of its solution. “We designed and deployed a seamless 5G network at Callio that provides the backbone for a fully automated test mine,” said Jaakko Kuukka, Country Manager Nordics at Boldyn. “It supports everything from remote machinery control to real-time operational awareness.”

Nokia underscored the broader industrial significance. “Mining is one of the harshest environments for connectivity, and this deployment shows the game-changing impact of private 5G,” said Michael Aspinall, Head of Enterprise Campus Edge Sales in Europe at Nokia. “Together with Boldyn, we’re enabling Callio to demonstrate how secure, high-performance networks can make underground operations safer, more efficient, and more sustainable.”

This initiative positions Callio FutureMINE as a world-class proving ground for the next wave of mining technology, where automation, AI, and advanced connectivity come together to shape the industry’s future.

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SOURCE: Nokia