Swisscom is stepping up its efforts to support digital transformation across Swiss industries by expanding its portfolio of Mobile Private Networks (MPNs). Late last year, the operator launched a new offering based on a fully standalone 5G private core, designed to deliver the performance, control and security needed for demanding enterprise environments.
The new solution, called MPN Private, enables businesses to set up their own dedicated mobile network on-site. This localised private 5G network can function independently of the public network, giving customers full control over data, latency, and reliability. It is particularly suitable for applications where real-time communication and data protection are critical, such as automated manufacturing, digital twins, connected workers and industrial robotics.
MPN Private has been developed in collaboration with technology partner Ericsson and builds on Swisscom’s existing work in providing 5G connectivity nationwide. While Ericsson contributes its dual-mode 4G and 5G core technology, the solution has been tailored and integrated by Swisscom to meet the needs of local business customers. The focus is on delivering a turnkey experience, with rapid deployment, simple integration, and built-in security features that keep data on-premises.
Swisscom has already started deploying this new private 5G solution in real-world industrial environments. One notable example is the ongoing collaboration with Holcim and Volvo at a quarry site in Villigen. As part of Holcim’s broader “Plants of Tomorrow” initiative, the site is trialling a new generation of electric, autonomous dumper trucks. These vehicles operate without drivers and are monitored remotely using Swisscom’s mobile private network.
The deployment in the quarry illustrates the value of dedicated mobile networks in complex and ever-changing environments. The site’s topology shifts regularly due to mining activity, and the autonomous vehicles generate large amounts of data that must be transmitted with low latency and high reliability. Swisscom’s private network provides the performance and stability required for real-time monitoring and control, with mobile data routed directly to Holcim’s internal systems through a secure and dedicated channel.
To support this initiative, Swisscom even invested in upgrading and extending on-site radio infrastructure. A new mast was installed in the quarry to ensure consistent video monitoring of the driverless vehicles. This move also aligns with Swisscom’s environmental goals, as it supports a pioneering logistics model that combines digitisation, automation, and decarbonisation. By helping Holcim reduce CO2 emissions through electric vehicle usage, Swisscom is demonstrating the broader sustainability benefits of private 5G networks.
With its MPN Private offering, Swisscom is aiming to empower more Swiss businesses to take control of their connectivity needs. Whether for smart manufacturing, remote operations, or autonomous systems, private 5G is becoming a key enabler of industrial innovation.
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