MegaFon Deploys Private LTE Network for Nordgold Mining Operations
This marks the first project of its kind implemented in the Olekminsky District of Yakutia.
Russia has a large number of industrial enterprises located in remote regions, where reliable communications infrastructure is critical for managing operations. One approach is the deployment of private LTE networks across industrial sites.
New Opportunities for Digitalization
Nordgold has adopted this approach by deploying a private LTE network, or pLTE, at its operations in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), in partnership with MegaFon. The network is the first of its kind in the Olekminsky District.
The telecom infrastructure includes seven fixed and two mobile base stations. The mobile units allow coverage to be adjusted as mining operations expand and pits deepen. The system provides connectivity across an area of approximately 100 square kilometers, creating a foundation for broader deployment of advanced digital technologies.
“Reliable coverage across all areas of the Gross pit enables real-time data transmission from mining equipment. This enhances the performance of existing dispatch systems, industrial safety solutions, including driver fatigue monitoring and collision avoidance systems, as well as environmental monitoring. In addition, pLTE enables full-scale deployment of autonomous solutions,” said Alexey Sheykin, IT Director of the Gross cluster.
Improving Efficiency and Reducing Environmental Impact
Nordgold says that integrating production processes through digital tools compatible with the new network infrastructure will further optimize haul routes, reduce downtime, and lower dust generation and carbon emissions.
At the same time, each private network deployment is tailored to specific operational requirements. For telecom operators, these projects also expand technical expertise.
“Private LTE networks are never one-size-fits-all, each customer has specific requirements. In this project, it was essential to account for dynamic operations and ensure connectivity as production activities move across the site. We addressed this by deploying mobile base stations that can be repositioned while maintaining network performance,” said Natalya Taldykina, Director of Corporate Business Development at MegaFon.
More Than 100 Networks Nationwide
The deployment of Private LTE and 5G networks in Russia is no longer limited to isolated cases. The technology is increasingly used as part of industrial digitalization strategies. According to a ComNews survey, as of November 2025, 102 commercial Private LTE networks had been deployed in Russia, with most projects involving major telecom operators.
MegaFon is the leading provider in this segment, accounting for 46 deployments, or about 45% of all private networks in operation. The operator has expanded its presence across sectors including oil and gas with 21 projects have been implemented, energy (8), and transport (4). Its Private LTE networks are deployed at facilities such as Magnitogorsk Iron and Steel Works, the Elga coal deposit, the Udokan copper deposit, and several mining and processing plants operated by Metalloinvest, SUEK, and Neryungri-Metallik.
Demand Expected to Grow
MTS ranks second, with 42 Private LTE deployments. Its solutions are widely used in mining (12), gold and diamond mining (11), and chemical production (7).
Rostelecom has also deployed at least eight private networks.
Industry experts expect continued growth in private network adoption in Russia in the coming years. Beyond improving operational control, Private LTE networks offer resilience, as they are not subject to external network restrictions, allowing enterprises to maintain operations under a wide range of conditions.
