Viking Mines’ expanded geophysical surveys reveal a large-scale tungsten system at the Linka Project in Nevada, setting the stage for a targeted drilling campaign in June. The discovery highlights significant untapped potential beneath volcanic cover and reinforces Linka’s strategic value amid soaring tungsten prices.
- Expanded surveys reveal ~2km diameter intrusive system with ~89% untested contact zone
- New southern extensions identified beneath volcanic cover, opening fresh drilling targets
- Advanced 3D modelling underway to optimise June quarter drilling program
- Tungsten’s strategic importance and record prices boost project’s domestic value
- Non-Executive Director Bevan Tarratt resigns but remains as strategic advisor
Expanded Geophysics Unveil Larger Linka System
Viking Mines Ltd (ASX:VKA) has significantly advanced its understanding of the Linka Tungsten Project in Nevada through expanded ground magnetics and geophysical surveys. The new data reveals that the previously known mineralised area represents only the eastern flank of a much larger intrusive system, approximately 2 kilometres in diameter with a circumference exceeding 7 kilometres. This expanded footprint dramatically increases the project's exploration upside, with around 89% of the prospective contact zone remaining untested.
Unlocking Hidden Targets Beneath Volcanic Cover
One of the key breakthroughs from the survey is the identification of southern extensions of the Linka system concealed beneath Bates Mountain’s volcanic cover. Traditional exploration methods had not penetrated this cover, but the high-resolution magnetic data has now ‘seen through’ it, exposing a high-conviction target horizon. This discovery opens new avenues for drilling and could reveal substantial skarn mineralisation previously overlooked.
Data-Driven Drilling Strategy and 3D Modelling
Viking Mines is integrating the geophysical datasets with advanced 3D geological modelling to precisely define drill targets ahead of the planned June quarter drilling campaign. This approach aims to maximise the efficiency and success rate of exploration by focusing on the most prospective zones where intrusive contacts coincide with high-density anomalies. The company is also progressing with gravity and GAIP data processing to further refine its targeting model.
Strategic Importance Amid Rising Tungsten Prices
Tungsten, classified as a critical mineral for US national security, is currently trading at record highs around US$2,650 per metric tonne unit. The Linka Project’s location in Nevada positions it as a potentially vital domestic source for this strategic metal. Viking Mines’ data-led exploration strategy seeks to capitalise on this favourable market environment by advancing a large-scale, high-quality tungsten asset.
Governance Update
In governance news, Non-Executive Director Bevan Tarratt has tendered his resignation effective 31 March 2026 due to expanded commitments elsewhere. However, he will continue to support Viking Mines as a strategic advisor on an as-needed basis, ensuring continuity in the company’s strategic development.
Bottom Line?
With a vastly expanded target area and strategic market tailwinds, Viking Mines is poised for a pivotal drilling campaign that could redefine the Linka Project’s potential.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the upcoming drilling results validate the interpreted scale and mineralisation of the Linka system?
- What impact will the director resignation have on Viking Mines’ strategic execution and investor confidence?
- How might sustained high tungsten prices influence Viking Mines’ project financing and development timeline?