Remote Russian mining camp gains mobile connectivity after helicopter deployment
A new mobile base station has been launched in one of Russia's most remote regions, bringing connectivity to workers at the Okhotsk Mining and Processing Plant (GOK). The installation, completed by engineers from Megafon, now provides voice calls and internet access to staff operating over a thousand kilometres from Khabarovsk in harsh subarctic conditions.
The project marks a significant step in improving digital infrastructure for shift workers in the Far North, where extreme weather and isolation have long made reliable communication difficult.
The base station was deployed at two key locations: the Kiran logistics hub and the DSU Kundumi road construction site, both situated in the Tuguro-Chumikansky and Ayan-Maysky districts. Kiran serves as a critical transit point for Okhotsk GOK, handling the movement of ore, equipment, and essential supplies. Due to the region's rugged terrain and lack of roads, two tons of telecommunications equipment had to be airlifted by helicopter.
Specialists from Megafon oversaw the installation and setup of the system, while Okhotsk GOK employees constructed the antenna-mast structures and ensured a stable power supply. The new station is fully autonomous, with backup systems capable of running for up to 10 hours during power outages. A 2.4-meter satellite antenna was also installed, enabling workers to access banking services, government portals, and messaging apps via a multi-band satellite link.
Oleg Azanov, CEO of Okhotsk GOK, highlighted that developing digital infrastructure is part of the company's broader effort to improve living and working conditions in the Far North. Artem Bazyl, Megafon's Director of Corporate Business Development, noted that the project proves their ability to tackle logistical and technical hurdles in even the most remote areas.
The new mobile network now supports shift workers with reliable communication tools, including internet access and voice services. The installation reflects ongoing efforts to modernise remote industrial sites, where extreme climate and isolation have traditionally limited connectivity. With the base station operational, staff can now access essential online services while working in one of Russia's most challenging environments.
