WA1 Resources Ltd (ASX: WA1) has released new diamond drilling assay results from its West Arunta niobium project in Western Australia, confirming significant high-grade intersections within the eastern zone of the Luni deposit. The infill drilling program, conducted on a 50-metre by 50-metre grid, is designed to increase geological confidence by better defining the geometry, thickness, and grade distribution of the mineralisation.

Notable results from the latest campaign include 21.4 metres at 7.4% Nb2O5 in hole LUDD-0162 and 38.0 metres at 3.8% Nb2O5 in hole LUDD-0171. These figures highlight the consistency of the niobium-rich oxide mineralisation, which typically occurs in sub-horizontal zones within weathered carbonatite. The data collected from these drillholes are being integrated into technical workstreams intended to support the potential conversion of a substantial portion of this high-grade zone to a Measured Resource category.

Managing Director Paul Savich indicated that the current efforts are essential for establishing a robust foundation for upcoming development studies.

"Field data collection supporting the PFS is now complete. Current site activities are focused on advancing technical workstreams that will strengthen the Project's foundation for definitive-level studies and future development."

"Access to Luni has also improved significantly following the commencement of direct flights earlier this month, enhancing logistics and supporting efficient project execution."
— Paul Savich, Managing Director

The current resource definition drilling program serves as a critical precursor to upcoming milestones for the company. The results reported in this release are being compiled to inform an update to the Mineral Resource Estimate, which is scheduled for completion later in 2026. This updated estimate will then feed into the broader project assessment work currently underway.

Beyond the resource definition work, the company is maintaining its timeline for project evaluation. The Pre-Feasibility Study for the Luni Niobium Project remains on track for release in Q4 2026. While the current focus remains on the weathered oxide zone, future exploration campaigns are expected to investigate the potential for primary mineralisation within the deeper, unweathered carbonatite portions of the deposit. The recent commissioning of a dedicated airstrip at the site is expected to improve logistical efficiency and support the ongoing execution of these development and exploration activities as the project moves toward its next phase of evaluation.

Read the full announcement: Luni Niobium Project - Assay Results