The project involved the commissioning of its ControlMaster Teleremote on the BTI-made machine in Siberia, though RCT did not disclose the client's identity. It also installed a digital vision kit with a pair of fixed cameras and audio capability and fibre optic control station (FOCS) at the mine's surface.

RCT CIS business development manager Stephen Macarow said that operating the rockbreaker from the control office will keep operators safe and allowing better use of the machine's capabilities.

"RCT's bespoke solutions division custom tailored the Teleremote package to the mining company's specific requirement," he added.

"[We] developed a unique auto-stow function at the request of VT and the mining company… [which] means operators can simply push a button and retract the rockbreaker arm from the grizzly or steel grate over the ore pass and bring the machine to a parked position."

VT, a Russian Caterpillar dealer, managed equipment delivery from Australia to the mine site, customs clearance, manuals translation and on-site installation and commissioning certification.