WA1 Resources has reported exceptional high-grade niobium drill results from its Luni Niobium Project, extending mineralisation and setting the stage for an updated resource estimate in 2026.
- Exceptional high-grade niobium intersections in southern Luni
- Mineralisation extended over 400m beyond current resource envelope
- 35,000m drilled in 2025 to support updated Mineral Resource estimate
- Hydrogeological studies and infrastructure development progressing
- Project development and permitting activities advancing
Exceptional Drilling Results Reinforce Luni's Potential
WA1 Resources Ltd (ASX – WA1) has delivered a compelling update on its 100% owned Luni Niobium Project in Western Australia, revealing further high-grade niobium intersections from its extensive 2025 drilling campaign. The company reported standout results including 16 metres at 5.6% Nb2O5 and 9.4 metres at 9.3% Nb2O5 in the southern part of the deposit, underscoring the continuity and quality of the mineralisation.
These infill drill results not only confirm the presence of a coherent blanket of mineralisation but also enhance the definition of the highest-grade zones, which are critical for the upcoming Mineral Resource estimate (MRE) update planned for 2026. The drilling program, which completed 35,000 metres last year, forms part of a broader 85,000 metres drilled since the project's discovery, reflecting WA1’s commitment to resource delineation and confidence building.
Extending the Resource Envelope
Beyond infill drilling, WA1’s air core drilling on the eastern flank of Luni has successfully extended mineralisation over 400 metres beyond the current MRE boundary. These step-out holes have identified high-grade niobium mineralisation associated with parallel carbonatite dykes, suggesting the deposit’s footprint is larger than previously understood.
The mineralisation in this area is interpreted to be sub-horizontal and enriched through weathering processes, with further potential for primary mineralisation at depth yet to be tested. This extension could materially increase the project’s resource base and enhance its economic prospects.
Advancing Development and Permitting
Alongside drilling, WA1 has made significant progress in site-based activities critical to advancing the project towards development. Hydrogeological studies, including extensive pump testing and downhole geophysics, have been completed to better understand aquifer properties, an essential factor for environmental permitting and mine planning.
Infrastructure development is also underway, with construction of an airstrip expected to be commissioned shortly, facilitating ongoing operations in this remote region. These efforts support the company’s broader strategy to refine project design and accelerate approvals.
Looking Ahead
WA1’s Managing Director, Paul Savich, highlighted the quality of the data collected in 2025 and its role in enabling more detailed development decisions. With drilling activities resuming and the MRE update on the horizon, the company is positioning itself to unlock the full potential of the Luni Niobium Project.
Given the strategic importance of niobium in high-tech and clean energy applications, these results place WA1 in a strong position within the critical minerals sector, attracting attention from investors and industry alike.
Bottom Line?
WA1’s drilling success and advancing site works set the stage for a pivotal resource update and project development milestones in 2026.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the updated Mineral Resource estimate impact WA1’s project valuation?
- What are the timelines and challenges expected for permitting and approvals?
- To what extent could deeper primary mineralisation enhance the deposit’s economics?