The New Afton copper-gold mine, one of the two primary operations of Canadian mining company New Gold, is undergoing a groundbreaking digital transformation. Leveraging an advanced LTE and 5G network deployed by Ambra Solutions, New Afton Ambra says “is set to redefine efficiency, safety, and automation in one of the world’s most complex mining environments.”
For this project, Ambra used an Athonet private LTE/5G network core – Athonet is now part of Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) and provides specialised private 5G and LTE network solutions for mission critical environments including mining. This was combined with Ericsson radio stations.
Located just 10 km west of Kamloops, British Columbia, New Afton operates beneath the historic Afton open pit mine, producing approximately 63,000 oz of gold and 50 million pounds of copper in 2025. The mine uses block caving, requiring precise coordination and cutting-edge technology.
The LTE/5G deployment, which kicked off in March 2024, is rolling out in three strategic phases:
- Phase 1: Implementing LTE-powered remote operations in the C-Zone, a newly developed mining area.
- Phase 2: Expanding underground LTE coverage to improve connectivity throughout the mine.
- Phase 3: Enhancing surface communication across the rugged, mountainous terrain.
Ambra: “This transformation overcomes significant challenges, including the need for high-precision geolocation to track extracted minerals and the integration of advanced wireless systems with legacy cable infrastructure.”
The project enables remote operations of Sandvik vehicles in the C-Zone, significantly enhancing safety and productivity. The LTE network also supports Push-to-Talk (PTT) communication, ensuring seamless coordination among workers. It also enables real-time geolocation via Ambra’s Intelligent Positioning System (iPS), allowing precise tracking of personnel and equipment for improved safety and operational efficiency. And it brings real-time network monitoring through Smartloads, ensuring network reliability and security.
By leveraging these technologies, New Afton aims to optimise operations while significantly enhancing worker safety. With remote operations, miners can control machinery from a distance, reducing the need for frequent commutes to the deepest parts of the mine. This journey typically takes 50 minutes each way.
Ambra states: “This advanced connectivity initiative is more than just an upgrade – it’s a blueprint for the future of underground mining. New Afton’s LTE network lays the foundation for predictive analytics, automation, and comprehensive asset tracking. With robust cybersecurity measures ensuring data integrity and operational security, New Afton is setting a new standard for digital transformation in mining – turning connectivity into a competitive advantage in one of the most demanding industries on the planet.”
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