Canadian mining company New Gold has launched a digital transformation project at its New Afton mine, deploying LTE and 5G networks aimed at optimizing operational efficiency and safety levels at this complex underground mine.

The New Afton mine is located approximately 10 kilometers west of Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada, and employs block caving mining technology. In 2025, it produced approximately 63,000 ounces of gold and 50 million pounds of copper. The mine's 5G network deployment began in March 2024 and was carried out in three phases. It started with LTE remote operations in Zone C, followed by the expansion of underground coverage and improvements to surface communications to address challenges related to high-precision positioning and system integration.

Through the 5G network, the New Afton mine has enabled remote operation of Sandvik vehicles, enhancing production safety. The network also supports push-to-talk communication and an intelligent positioning system, enabling more precise tracking of personnel and equipment. Real-time monitoring capabilities ensure network stability and reduce the need for miners to travel to deep areas, where a one-way trip takes about 50 minutes, thereby improving overall operational efficiency.

This 5G network project lays the foundation for automation, predictive analytics, and asset tracking at the New Afton mine, while ensuring data integrity through cybersecurity measures. It demonstrates the application potential of 5G technology in underground mining environments and provides a reference case for the industry's digital transformation.