Expanding Connectivity on the Edge of the Arctic: Our LTE Radio Installation in Kaktovik
This past week, members of the Richesin Engineering team had the privilege of traveling to Kaktovik, Alaska, a remote community located on Barter Island along the Beaufort Sea. Our mission was clear: improve connectivity in one of the northernmost inhabited areas of the United States by deploying a new LTE radio system for the North Slope Borough.
Why Kaktovik?
Kaktovik is a resilient Iñupiat community with fewer than 300 residents. While the region is renowned for its natural beauty and wildlife, it has historically faced challenges with connectivity due to its remote Arctic location and extreme weather. Access to reliable communications is critical — whether for emergency services, education, healthcare, or enabling local businesses to connect with the world.
The Project
Our scope of work was to design, deliver, and install LTE radios that would extend broadband coverage across the community and improve communication reliability. The project involved:
Site surveys and preparation to identify optimal installation points, factoring in terrain, climate, and existing infrastructure.
Deployment of LTE radios designed to perform in harsh Arctic conditions, ensuring resilience in high winds, snow, and subzero temperatures.
Integration with existing infrastructure, ensuring seamless compatibility with the North Slope Borough’s broader communications network.
Overcoming Challenges
Working in the Arctic requires unique planning:
Extreme weather: We encountered high winds and near-freezing conditions, which made equipment handling and tower climbing more demanding.
Logistics: Getting equipment to Kaktovik meant careful coordination with air freight and local teams to handle delivery in a region not connected to the road system.
Environmental stewardship: We worked closely with local authorities to ensure our installation respected the surrounding wildlife, especially given Kaktovik’s role as a key observation area for polar bears.
Impact for the Community
The installation of LTE radios will have a significant impact:
Education: Students and teachers now have more reliable access to online resources and distance learning tools.
Healthcare: Improved connectivity supports telemedicine, allowing residents to consult with specialists without leaving the community.
Public safety: First responders and emergency services now have a more reliable communication system, improving safety in remote conditions.
Community connection: Families can stay connected with loved ones elsewhere in Alaska and beyond, helping reduce isolation.
Looking Ahead
Our work in Kaktovik reflects Richesin Engineering’s commitment to building resilient, future-proof communications infrastructure in rural and underserved communities. As we continue to partner with the North Slope Borough, we look forward to supporting their vision of stronger connectivity, better access to critical services, and greater opportunities for the community.