Can Viking Mines Turn High-Grade Linka Assays Into a Profitable US Tungsten Mine?

Strong Assay Results Validate Linka's High-Grade Potential

Viking Mines Limited (ASX – VKA) has announced encouraging assay results from metallurgical samples taken at its Linka Tungsten Project in Nevada, USA. Four composite samples totaling nearly 300 kilograms returned tungsten oxide (WO3) grades ranging from 0.8% to a standout 1.3%, with a weighted average of 1.0% WO3. These results confirm the high-grade nature of scheelite mineralisation historically reported at Linka, a key asset in Viking’s portfolio of six US-based tungsten projects currently under acquisition.

Context of the Linka Project and Market Dynamics

Linka’s tungsten mineralisation has a rich history dating back to the mid-20th century, with underground workings and open pits that produced ore grades previously recorded between 0.4% and 1.0% WO3. Viking’s recent assays notably exceed many global tungsten operations, where grades as low as 0.2% WO3 are economically viable. This is particularly significant given the current market environment – scheelite concentrate prices have surged to all-time highs, with 25-30% grade concentrates fetching approximately US$937 per metric tonne unit (mtu), underscoring the commercial potential of Linka’s high-grade ore.

Advancing Metallurgical Testwork and Project Development

Following the receipt of assay results, Viking has initiated sighter metallurgical testwork aimed at developing a process flowsheet to produce a scheelite concentrate. This step is critical to validate the economic extraction and processing of tungsten from the Linka samples. The company is also planning further technical activities including high-resolution aerial surveys, geophysical gravity and magnetic surveys, and sourcing historical data to support comprehensive project evaluation. Importantly, Viking is preparing for drill hole planning and intends to submit a Notice of Intent to federal agencies to secure drilling permits, a key milestone for advancing resource definition.

Strategic Acquisition and Regulatory Environment

Linka is part of a broader strategic acquisition by Viking of six tungsten projects in Nevada, a Tier 1 jurisdiction known for its mining-friendly regulatory framework. The acquisition agreement includes staged payments totaling US$2.88 million over seven years, with a 2% net smelter return royalty retained by the current claim holder. Viking’s management highlights the timing advantage of entering the tungsten market amid record prices and the potential to unlock value through exploration and development of these historically productive assets.

Outlook and Market Implications

These assay results and ongoing testwork mark a significant step forward for Viking Mines as it seeks to establish a high-grade tungsten operation in the United States. With global tungsten supply tight and demand supported by industrial and strategic applications, the Linka Project’s high-grade scheelite mineralisation positions Viking well to capitalise on favourable market conditions. However, the company still faces the usual challenges of metallurgical optimisation, permitting, and resource delineation before production can be realised.