Osmond Resources Boosts Orion Project by 160%, Eyes Drilling Milestone
Osmond Resources has significantly expanded its Orion EU Critical Minerals Project in Southern Spain by 160%, adding three new permits and preparing for a targeted drilling campaign to confirm mineral continuity.
- Orion project area expanded to 228 km² with three new permit applications
- Geological mapping reveals extensive rutile, zircon, hafnium, and rare earth layers
- Initial 15-hole drilling program budgeted under A$1.5 million
- CEO exercised options, adding A$437k to company cash reserves
- Cash position stands at A$4.3 million as of 30 June 2025
Project Expansion and Geological Insights
Osmond Resources Limited (ASX, OSM) has announced a substantial expansion of its Orion EU Critical Minerals Project located in Jaén Province, Andalucía, Southern Spain. The company has applied for three additional permits totaling 142 square kilometers, increasing the project footprint by 160% to 228 square kilometers. This expansion follows extensive geological mapping that identified multiple mineral-rich layers containing rutile, zircon, hafnium, and rare earth elements (REEs), critical for emerging technologies and the EU's strategic supply chains.
The Orion project area, comprising 756 Spanish mining units, is situated in a siliciclastic geological system with historic exploration dating back to the mid-20th century. The discovery of mineralised outcrops extending over a 12-kilometer lateral range underscores the potential scale of the deposit. Osmond’s geological team is optimistic that these mineralised seams may extend beyond the current boundaries, justifying the permit applications to the north, south, and west.
Drilling Plans and Financial Position
To validate the continuity and grade of the mineralised layers, Osmond plans an initial drilling program comprising 15 holes. The company has secured competitive quotes, with the total cost expected to remain below A$1.5 million. This drilling campaign is a critical next step to underpin a Mineral Resource Estimate and subsequent scoping study, both targeted for completion within calendar year 2025.
Financially, Osmond has strengthened its position with the CEO exercising share options, injecting A$437,500 into the company. This capital boost brings Osmond’s cash reserves to A$4.3 million as of 30 June 2025, providing a solid foundation to advance exploration and development activities.
Strategic Context and Future Outlook
The Orion project aligns with the European Union’s strategic imperative to secure critical mineral supplies domestically, reducing reliance on imports. Osmond’s focus on high-grade seams rich in titanium minerals and rare earth oxides positions it well to benefit from supportive EU regulatory frameworks and funding initiatives.
Beyond Orion, Osmond also holds interests in the Iberian One Project in central Spain and the Yumbarra Project in South Australia, diversifying its portfolio across critical mineral commodities. Collaborations with institutions like the University of Salamanca and SGS Labs further enhance the company’s technical capabilities and development prospects.
While the permit awards are pending and drilling outcomes remain to be seen, Osmond’s methodical approach and robust cash position provide a promising platform for advancing its critical minerals ambitions in Europe.
Bottom Line?
Osmond’s expanded footprint and imminent drilling mark a pivotal phase, with upcoming results set to shape its role in Europe’s critical minerals landscape.
Questions in the middle?
- When will the new permits be officially granted and what conditions might apply?
- How will initial drilling results influence the timing and scale of resource estimation?
- What are the potential environmental or regulatory challenges given the project’s location in a Special Conservation Area?
