NEW DELHI: Ericsson and Epiroc have expanded their global partnership to accelerate digital transformation and automation in the mining sector, responding to growing industry demand for advanced connectivity, safety and productivity solutions.

Under the agreement, Epiroc will integrate Ericsson's LTE and 5G enterprise connectivity solutions into its digital portfolio for both surface and underground mining operations. The collaboration aims to help mining companies deploy secure, high-performance wireless networks that support automation, remote operations and predictive maintenance.

The expanded alliance marks a significant milestone in the companies' go-to-market relationship, with Epiroc acting as a systems integrator to resell and deploy Ericsson's enterprise wireless technologies for mining customers worldwide.

The integrated offering will combine Ericsson's private LTE and 5G solutions with Epiroc's digital tools, including telematics, remote-control systems, situational awareness platforms and collision avoidance technologies. The companies said the partnership will enable mining operators to build resilient operational technology ecosystems while improving efficiency and workplace safety.

Paul Bergström, President of Epiroc's Digital Solutions division, said reliable connectivity is becoming increasingly critical as mining companies advance automation and digitalization initiatives. He noted that the strengthened partnership would help customers build the communications infrastructure required for safer and more productive operations.

Pankaj Malhotra, Head of Product and Engineering at Ericsson Enterprise Wireless Solutions, said the collaboration is focused on delivering measurable operational benefits, including improved safety, productivity and efficiency through connected industrial ecosystems.

The agreement builds on a relationship established in 2018, when the two companies first began exploring the application of LTE and 5G technologies in mining environments