Why NTT DATA & Codelco Have Formed a Digital Mining Alliance

NTT DATA and Codelco sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that sets the foundation for a long-term alliance focused on next‑generation mining technologies. 

The partnership brings together NTT DATA’s global capabilities in AI, digital services and advanced connectivity with Codelco’s operational expertise as the world’s leading copper producer. 

The collaboration aims to support safer, more efficient and more sustainable mining, strengthened by modern network infrastructure and emerging digital tools.

Máximo Pacheco, Chairman of Codelco’s Board of Directors, says: “The future of mining is built through alliances that allow us to learn, innovate and adopt cutting-edge technologies to maintain our leading role globally. 

"Every step we take in innovation serves a greater purpose: to strengthen Codelco as a pillar of sustainable development in Chile and the world.”

Building a telco-powered digital foundation for future mining

The MoU covers several technology priorities, including advanced connectivity using 5G and 6G networks, photonic technologies and satellite communications. 

For the telco sector, the partnership highlights the rising importance of network-led transformation in heavy industry.

High-bandwidth, low-latency communications are essential for new mining workloads such as autonomous operations, remote fleet management, real-time sensor monitoring and digital twin environments.

Signed at NTT DATA’s global headquarters in Tokyo, the agreement formalises cooperation between the two organisations.

The signing was led by Máximo Pacheco and Miguel Teixeira, CEO Iberia, International Organisations, LATAM and Consulting in Benelux and France at NTT DATA, Inc. Yutaka Sasaki, President and CEO of NTT DATA, attended as a witness.

Miguel Teixeira says: “This alliance with Codelco represents a unique opportunity to combine our technological experience with the leadership of one of the world's most important mining companies. Together, we will drive a new era of innovation and efficiency in global mining.”

The agreement commits both parties to explore generative AI, robotics, quantum computing, autonomous systems and clean technologies. For telcos, mining innovation of this scale reinforces the role of robust digital infrastructure as a foundation for industrial modernisation.

Advanced connectivity at the centre of transformation

Telecommunications capabilities sit at the core of the collaboration. Codelco’s remote operations, underground networks and industrial sensor grids depend on reliable high-speed communications. 

The MoU outlines plans to investigate next‑generation network architectures that can support mission‑critical services, including private 5G for operational sites and satellite links for remote regions.

Emerging photonic networks and quantum‑ready systems are also included as part of a wider digital infrastructure roadmap. 

These technologies help support rapid data transfer, low‑latency control systems and secure communications essential for autonomous mining platforms.

Yutaka Sasaki, President and CEO of NTT DATA, says: “Improving safety and productivity within the mining industry is fundamental. 

“NTT DATA will help address these challenges by providing a comprehensive R&D framework that incorporates generative AI, autonomous control of robots, operational understanding through digital twins and process productivity improvement using quantum computing. We look forward to collaboratively advancing the product.”

Digital twins rely on telco-grade connectivity to mirror real‑time mine operations, helping teams run simulations and identify performance opportunities. 

Quantum computing, while at an early stage, has potential benefits for complex modelling and optimisation tasks within large‑scale mining environments.

Joint innovation model and strategic governance

The partnership includes a cooperation model that focuses on knowledge transfer, open innovation and shared development across both organisations. 

As a result, the model supports progressive implementation of new technologies rather than rapid single‑phase deployments, allowing both sides to evaluate performance and integration challenges.

To manage the collaboration, the MoU establishes a governance structure made up of strategic committees and technical coordination teams. These groups will review opportunities, define operational priorities and oversee project execution. 

This ensures each initiative aligns with long‑term transformation goals while remaining practical for on‑site adoption.

NTT DATA’s experience across global industrial sectors, combined with Codelco’s mining expertise, provides a balanced framework for testing and scaling digital solutions.

The partnership positions telecommunications technologies not as supporting tools but as critical enablers of modern mining.

A new chapter for telco‑driven industrial innovation

For the telco sector, the alliance highlights how industries operating in extreme environments depend on advanced connectivity to accelerate digital transformation. 

Mining requires stable, intelligent networks capable of supporting AI, automation and high‑volume data workflows. 

By aligning with Codelco, NTT DATA reinforces the strategic role of telecommunications in reshaping industrial infrastructure and designing safer, more sustainable operations.

With the agreement, both organisations commit to a shared vision for future mining where digital tools, connected systems and emerging technologies drive long‑term operational change.