# Defense Metals Resource Upgrade Drilling Intersects 2.86% TREO over 65 Metres; Including 6.15% TREO over 20 Metres at the Wicheeda Rare Earth Project

Canonical Atlas analysis: https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d

Original source: https://orestocks.com/company/DEFN.V/press-releases/6218722414564777

Publisher: orestocks

Original announcement: 2026-08-31T11:00:00.000Z

Analysis by Minestarters Atlas

Atlas analysis published: Unknown date

Atlas analysis updated: Unknown date

- Company: Defense Metals Corp.

- Ticker: DEFN.V

- Exchange: Unavailable

- Region: British Columbia, Canada

- Primary commodity: Rare earth elements

- Secondary commodities: Cerium, Lanthanum, Neodymium, Praseodymium, Samarium, Gadolinium, Europium, Dysprosium, Terbium, Holmium

- Document categories: Drill results, Resource update

- Extracted: 2026-08-31 11:21:11 UTC

Narrative sentiment: 0.90 · Bullish

## Minestarters Atlas summary

Defense Metals Corp. announced positive assay results from its 2026 resource upgrade and infill drilling program at the Wicheeda Rare Earth Project in British Columbia, Canada. All eleven reported drill holes intersected significant widths of high to moderate grade rare earth element mineralization, including a highlight of 6.15% TREO over 20.3 metres within a broader interval of 2.86% TREO over 65.1 metres. These results are expected to contribute to a resource classification uplift within the existing Preliminary Feasibility Study pit confines, advancing the project towards a Feasibility Study.

Reasoning: The drill results consistently show significant widths of high-grade rare earth element mineralization from infill drilling within the existing pit design, directly supporting an upgrade of the resource classification and de-risking the project as it moves towards a Feasibility Study.

- Positive factor: High-grade intercepts \(e.g., 6.15% TREO over 20.3m\)

- Positive factor: Significant widths \(e.g., 184.4m at 1.70% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Infill drilling targeting resource upgrade within PFS pit shell

- Positive factor: All holes intersected significant mineralization

- Positive factor: Good QA/QC and QP sign-off

- Positive factor: True width estimated to be 70-100% of drilled interval

Facts used in scoring: 19

## Classification and evidence

**Resource Update**

Polarity: neutral

Definition: Revised estimate for an existing resource — compare to prior to assess progress.

Why it applies: The document explicitly states 'Resource Upgrade Drilling' and that results 'are expected to contribute positively to a resource classification uplift'.

Evidence · text

> Defense Metals Resource Upgrade Drilling Intersects 2.86% TREO over 65 Metres; Including 6.15% TREO over 20 Metres at the Wicheeda Rare Earth Project

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

Definition: Confirmatory drilling to raise resource confidence, not new discovery.

Why it applies: The drill program is described as 'Resource infill drill hole' and 'resource upgrade and infill drilling'.

Evidence · text

> Resource infill drill hole WI26-96

**QP/CP Signed**

Polarity: positive

Definition: Qualified Person \(QP\) or Competent Person \(CP\) named and signed off — a member of a recognized professional association \(e.g., AusIMM, SME, AIG, P.Geo\) with relevant experience.

Why it applies: The news release states that Kristopher J. Raffle, P.Geo. \(B.C.\), a 'Qualified Person' as defined in NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information.

Evidence · text

> Kristopher J. Raffle, P.Geo. \(B.C.\), Principal and Consultant of APEX Geoscience Ltd. of Edmonton, Alberta, and a consultant to the Company, who is a "Qualified Person" as defined in NI 43-101

**QA/QC Disclosed**

Polarity: positive

Definition: Release includes QA/QC disclosure — certified lab, QP sign-off, or stated methods \(blanks, standards, duplicates\).

Why it applies: The document includes a dedicated section on 'Methodology and Quality Assurance/Quality Control' detailing procedures, lab accreditation, and sample insertion.

Evidence · text

> Defense Metals follows industry standard procedures for the work carried out on the Wicheeda Project, with a quality assurance/quality control \("QA/QC"\) program. Blank, duplicate, and standard samples were inserted into the sample sequence sent to the laboratory for analysis.

**True Width Disclosed**

Polarity: positive

Definition: Actual thickness perpendicular to structure is stated, not just downhole length.

Why it applies: The document provides an estimate for the true width of mineralization relative to the drilled interval.

Evidence · text

> The true width of REE mineralization is estimated to be 70-100% of the drilled interval.

## Extracted facts

Stored fact records: 19. Some facts used in scoring do not have a stored record.

## Drill Results (19)

### WI26-86

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-0)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-86
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 3.69
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 69.8 m
- From: 1 m
- To: 70.8 m
- Intercept Depth: 1 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-86:1.0-70.8
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 225 °
- Dip: -60 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This intercept shows exceptional grade and continuous width, contributing significantly to the resource upgrade efforts within the PFS pit shell.

- Positive factor: Exceptional grade \(3.69% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Continuous width \(69.8m\)

- Positive factor: High grade-thickness product \(257.56 %·m\)

- Positive factor: Infill drilling for resource upgrade

Evidence · table

> 3.69

Context: 69.8

### WI26-86

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-1)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-86
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 5.03
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 32 m
- From: 3 m
- To: 35 m
- Intercept Depth: 3 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-86:3.0-35.0
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 225 °
- Dip: -60 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This high-grade sub-interval within WI26-86 further enhances the overall positive result, indicating a very rich zone of mineralization.

- Positive factor: Exceptional grade \(5.03% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Strong continuity width \(32.0m\)

- Positive factor: High grade-thickness product \(160.96 %·m\)

- Positive factor: High-grade sub-interval

Evidence · table

> 5.03

Context: 32.0

### WI26-93

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-2)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-93
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 1.7
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 184.4 m
- From: 91.6 m
- To: 276 m
- Intercept Depth: 91.6 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-93:91.6-276.0
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 275 °
- Dip: -45 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This broad intercept of strong grade mineralization significantly contributes to the resource base and supports the goal of resource classification uplift.

- Positive factor: Strong grade \(1.70% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Exceptional width \(184.4m\)

- Positive factor: Very high grade-thickness product \(313.48 %·m\)

- Positive factor: Infill drilling for resource upgrade

Evidence · table

> 1.70

Context: 184.4

### WI26-93

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-3)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-93
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 2.52
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 56.7 m
- From: 96.4 m
- To: 153.1 m
- Intercept Depth: 96.4 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-93:96.4-153.1
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 275 °
- Dip: -45 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This high-grade sub-interval within WI26-93 demonstrates excellent mineralization within the broader zone, reinforcing the project's potential.

- Positive factor: Exceptional grade \(2.52% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Continuous width \(56.7m\)

- Positive factor: High grade-thickness product \(142.88 %·m\)

- Positive factor: High-grade sub-interval

Evidence · table

> 2.52

Context: 56.7

### WI26-94

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-4)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-94
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 0.82
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 57.9 m
- From: 77.1 m
- To: 135 m
- Intercept Depth: 77.1 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-94:77.1-135.0
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 284 °
- Dip: -60 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This intercept, while moderate in grade, contributes to the overall resource definition with a significant width, supporting resource upgrade.

- Positive factor: Moderate grade \(0.82% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Continuous width \(57.9m\)

- Positive factor: Good grade-thickness product \(47.48 %·m\)

- Positive factor: Infill drilling for resource upgrade

Evidence · table

> 0.82

Context: 57.9

### WI26-95

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-5)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-95
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 2.42
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 36 m
- From: 64 m
- To: 100 m
- Intercept Depth: 64 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-95:64.0-100.0
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 320 °
- Dip: -45 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This intercept provides strong grade and width, reinforcing the continuity of mineralization for resource upgrade purposes.

- Positive factor: Strong grade \(2.42% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Strong continuity width \(36.0m\)

- Positive factor: High grade-thickness product \(87.12 %·m\)

- Positive factor: Infill drilling for resource upgrade

Evidence · table

> 2.42

Context: 36.0

### WI26-96

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-6)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-96
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 2.86
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 65.1 m
- From: 60.9 m
- To: 126 m
- Intercept Depth: 60.9 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-96:60.9-126.0
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 320 °
- Dip: -60 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This exceptional grade and continuous width intercept is a key highlight, significantly contributing to the resource upgrade and de-risking the project.

- Positive factor: Exceptional grade \(2.86% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Continuous width \(65.1m\)

- Positive factor: Very high grade-thickness product \(186.19 %·m\)

- Positive factor: Infill drilling for resource upgrade

Evidence · table

> 2.86

Context: 65.1

### WI26-96

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-7)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-96
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 6.15
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 20.3 m
- From: 93 m
- To: 113.3 m
- Intercept Depth: 93 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-96:93.0-113.3
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 320 °
- Dip: -60 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This bonanza-grade sub-interval is a standout result, indicating a very high-quality zone of mineralization that will significantly impact resource economics.

- Positive factor: Bonanza grade \(6.15% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Strong continuity width \(20.3m\)

- Positive factor: Exceptional grade-thickness product \(124.84 %·m\)

- Positive factor: High-grade sub-interval

Evidence · table

> 6.15

Context: 20.3

### WI26-97

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-8)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-97
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 1.96
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 116.2 m
- From: 2.9 m
- To: 119 m
- Intercept Depth: 2.9 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-97:2.9-119.0
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 110 °
- Dip: -70 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This long intercept with strong grade further confirms the continuity of mineralization, supporting resource upgrade efforts.

- Positive factor: Strong grade \(1.96% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Exceptional width \(116.2m\)

- Positive factor: Very high grade-thickness product \(227.75 %·m\)

- Positive factor: Infill drilling for resource upgrade

Evidence · table

> 1.96

Context: 116.2

### WI26-98

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-9)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-98
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 1.55
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 119 m
- From: 3.1 m
- To: 122 m
- Intercept Depth: 3.1 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-98:3.1-122.0
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 120 °
- Dip: -45 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This long intercept with strong grade further confirms the continuity of mineralization, supporting resource upgrade efforts.

- Positive factor: Strong grade \(1.55% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Exceptional width \(119.0m\)

- Positive factor: Very high grade-thickness product \(184.45 %·m\)

- Positive factor: Infill drilling for resource upgrade

Evidence · table

> 1.55

Context: 119.0

### WI26-98

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-10)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-98
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 2.34
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 53 m
- From: 3.1 m
- To: 56 m
- Intercept Depth: 3.1 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-98:3.1-56.0
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 120 °
- Dip: -45 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This high-grade sub-interval within WI26-98 further enhances the overall positive result, indicating a rich zone of mineralization.

- Positive factor: Strong grade \(2.34% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Continuous width \(53.0m\)

- Positive factor: High grade-thickness product \(123.02 %·m\)

- Positive factor: High-grade sub-interval

Evidence · table

> 2.34

Context: 53.0

### WI26-99

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-11)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-99
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 1.63
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 111.6 m
- From: 3.4 m
- To: 115 m
- Intercept Depth: 3.4 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-99:3.4-115.0
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 140 °
- Dip: -45 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This long intercept with strong grade further confirms the continuity of mineralization, supporting resource upgrade efforts.

- Positive factor: Strong grade \(1.63% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Exceptional width \(111.6m\)

- Positive factor: Very high grade-thickness product \(182.09 %·m\)

- Positive factor: Infill drilling for resource upgrade

Evidence · table

> 1.63

Context: 111.6

### WI26-99

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-12)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-99
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 2.65
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 57.6 m
- From: 3.4 m
- To: 61 m
- Intercept Depth: 3.4 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-99:3.4-61.0
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 140 °
- Dip: -45 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This high-grade sub-interval within WI26-99 further enhances the overall positive result, indicating a rich zone of mineralization.

- Positive factor: Exceptional grade \(2.65% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Continuous width \(57.6m\)

- Positive factor: High grade-thickness product \(152.64 %·m\)

- Positive factor: High-grade sub-interval

Evidence · table

> 2.65

Context: 57.6

### WI26-100

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-13)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-100
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 1.55
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 148.7 m
- From: 2.3 m
- To: 151 m
- Intercept Depth: 2.3 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-100:2.3-151.0
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 140 °
- Dip: -60 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This very long intercept with strong grade further confirms the continuity of mineralization, supporting resource upgrade efforts.

- Positive factor: Strong grade \(1.55% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Exceptional width \(148.7m\)

- Positive factor: Very high grade-thickness product \(230.49 %·m\)

- Positive factor: Infill drilling for resource upgrade

Evidence · table

> 1.55

Context: 148.7

### WI26-100

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-14)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-100
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 2.4
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 84.6 m
- From: 2.3 m
- To: 86.9 m
- Intercept Depth: 2.3 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-100:2.3-86.9
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 140 °
- Dip: -60 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This high-grade sub-interval within WI26-100 further enhances the overall positive result, indicating a rich zone of mineralization.

- Positive factor: Strong grade \(2.40% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Continuous width \(84.6m\)

- Positive factor: Very high grade-thickness product \(203.04 %·m\)

- Positive factor: High-grade sub-interval

Evidence · table

> 2.40

Context: 84.6

### WI26-101

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-15)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-101
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 1.99
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 108.8 m
- From: 2.3 m
- To: 111 m
- Intercept Depth: 2.3 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-101:2.3-111.0
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 170 °
- Dip: -60 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This long intercept with strong grade further confirms the continuity of mineralization, supporting resource upgrade efforts.

- Positive factor: Strong grade \(1.99% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Exceptional width \(108.8m\)

- Positive factor: Very high grade-thickness product \(216.51 %·m\)

- Positive factor: Infill drilling for resource upgrade

Evidence · table

> 1.99

Context: 108.8

### WI26-101

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-16)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-101
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 2.4
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 85.8 m
- From: 2.3 m
- To: 88 m
- Intercept Depth: 2.3 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-101:2.3-88.0
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 170 °
- Dip: -60 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This high-grade sub-interval within WI26-101 further enhances the overall positive result, indicating a rich zone of mineralization.

- Positive factor: Strong grade \(2.40% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Continuous width \(85.8m\)

- Positive factor: Very high grade-thickness product \(205.92 %·m\)

- Positive factor: High-grade sub-interval

Evidence · table

> 2.40

Context: 85.8

### WI26-102

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-17)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-102
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 2.62
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 73.4 m
- From: 5.7 m
- To: 79.1 m
- Intercept Depth: 5.7 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-102:5.7-79.1
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 200 °
- Dip: -45 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This exceptional grade and continuous width intercept is a key highlight, significantly contributing to the resource upgrade and de-risking the project.

- Positive factor: Exceptional grade \(2.62% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Continuous width \(73.4m\)

- Positive factor: Very high grade-thickness product \(192.41 %·m\)

- Positive factor: Infill drilling for resource upgrade

Evidence · table

> 2.62

Context: 73.4

### WI26-102

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-staging.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--70ca75af-868c-4262-ab9c-e553f5ccb74d#fact-drill-facts-18)

Wicheeda Rare Earth Project · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-102
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth Project
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: British Columbia, Canada
- Ticker: DEFN.V

#### Geometry

- Grade: 3.25
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 34.3 m
- From: 5.7 m
- To: 40 m
- Intercept Depth: 5.7 m

#### Classification

- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-102:5.7-40.0
- Mining Method: open\_pit

#### Location

- Azimuth: 200 °
- Dip: -45 °

#### QA/QC

- Laboratory: ALS Canada Ltd.
- QA/QC Disclosed: Yes
- Lab Certified: Yes
- QP Signed: Yes
- QA/QC Methods: blanks, duplicates, standards

#### Review

- Needs Review: No
- Interp. Status: scored
- Historical: No

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-08-31T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: This high-grade sub-interval within WI26-102 further enhances the overall positive result, indicating a very rich zone of mineralization.

- Positive factor: Exceptional grade \(3.25% TREO\)

- Positive factor: Strong continuity width \(34.3m\)

- Positive factor: High grade-thickness product \(111.48 %·m\)

- Positive factor: High-grade sub-interval

Evidence · table

> 3.25

Context: 34.3

## How Atlas produces this analysis

Minestarters Atlas uses automated extraction to summarize mining announcements, identify reported measurements, and classify supporting evidence. Sentiment reflects the extracted narrative and classification rules; it is an interpretation, not a reported measurement. Evidence quotes and context are provided where available. Missing data, low-confidence results, and review flags indicate limitations. Check the original publisher announcement before relying on an interpretation.