McLaren Titanium Project Hits 5.44% Heavy Mineral Grade from Surface

Strongest Assay Results Yet from 2026 Drilling

McLaren Minerals Limited (ASX:MML) has delivered a fresh batch of assay results from its 2026 drilling campaign at the McLaren Titanium Project in Western Australia, revealing the highest average heavy mineral (HM) grade reported so far. The latest 74-hole batch covering 1,199 metres returned a length-weighted average grade of 5.44% HM from surface, up from 4.96% in the previous release. This improvement is notable given the entire sampled intervals start at surface, offering a clear view of the deposit's accessible mineralisation.

Consistent Grade and Thickness Across Deposit

The drilling results show remarkable consistency with 89% of holes averaging at least 4% HM, 62% hitting 5% or more, and nearly a third (32%) exceeding 6%. Mineralised thicknesses are substantial, with 73% of holes returning intervals of 15 metres or more, and 15% extending beyond 21 metres. These broad zones of mineralisation from surface are critical for potential open-pit mining scenarios, suggesting a robust and continuous heavy mineral profile.

Highlighting the high-grade potential, 24 holes recorded average grades above 10% HM within their intervals, and peak one-metre assays reached an impressive 16.43% HM in hole MAC434. Other standout intervals include 18 metres at 8.06% HM in MAC435 and 21 metres at 7.61% HM in MAC470, underscoring pockets of elevated mineralisation within the broader deposit.

Implications for Resource Upgrade and Feasibility

These latest results build on the extensive 2026 drilling program that has now delivered over 6,600 assays from more than 11,500 metres drilled. The data set is feeding into an updated geological model and Mineral Resource estimate, which McLaren anticipates will provide greater confidence for mine planning and production scheduling. Managing Director Simon Finnis emphasised the strengthening grade profile moving south through the deposit and the consistently mineable widths from surface, describing the results as "quite remarkable" and expressing optimism as each batch surpasses the last.

The continuity and strength of the grades are key inputs for upcoming metallurgical test work and technical studies, which will underpin future Ore Reserve estimations and the Bankable Feasibility Study (BFS). While the Mineral Resource currently stands at 529 million tonnes at 4.5% HM, these improved grades and thicknesses could enhance project economics once integrated into the updated resource and feasibility models.

Next Steps and Project Outlook

McLaren is progressing with the validation and reporting of the remaining assay results from the 2026 program. The comprehensive drilling data will be incorporated into the updated Mineral Resource estimate, expected to refine the understanding of the deposit’s extent and grade distribution. Parallel metallurgical testing and detailed mining studies are underway to support the transition from exploration to development.

Given the critical role of titanium in aerospace, defence, and energy sectors, McLaren’s advancing project in the western Eucla Basin positions it well within a strategic minerals landscape. However, the economic viability remains subject to the forthcoming resource update and technical assessments.