Nokia expands 5G connectivity with Tampnet in Gulf of Mexico offshore operations

Nokia has engaged with Tampnet to enhance 5G private wireless connectivity across the Gulf of Mexico. The collaboration focuses on deploying Nokia’s 5G technology to expand coverage and support offshore platforms and vessels, highlighting efforts to improve offshore digital infrastructure.

This initiative addresses the operational requirements of offshore activities by aiming to provide reliable and low-latency connectivity. Tampnet operates critical subsea fiber and wireless networks in the Gulf, supporting offshore digital operations through its infrastructure.

The technical deployment features Nokia's 5G AirScale Radio Access equipment operating across Tampnet’s network, which includes 120 active base stations with plans to extend coverage to 350 to 400 offshore units such as platforms, rigs, floating production storage and offloading units, wind farms, and vessels. The equipment is designed to facilitate applications like real-time remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and automation.

Work executed includes the upgrade of offshore installations in the Gulf of Mexico with private 5G wireless solutions, building on a prior 2025 project that introduced a private 5G edge network on a Norwegian offshore platform. The scope encompasses both network infrastructure expansion and digitization of offshore assets.

“With Nokia’s 5G technology, we are taking a significant step towards modernizing our offshore networks in the Gulf,” said Arnt Erling Skavdal, CTO of Mobile Technology at Tampnet. Jeff Pittman, Head of North America Enterprise, Mobile Networks at Nokia, said, “Our collaboration with Tampnet demonstrates how Nokia’s private wireless solutions are enabling digital transformation in some of the world’s most challenging environments.”

The companies outlined plans to extend deployment of 5G technology in offshore environments, intending to support further digital applications and connectivity enhancements in the region.