# 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-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd

Original source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/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-302863238.html

Publisher: prnewswire

Original announcement: 2026-09-11T23:58:40.187Z

Analysis by Minestarters Atlas

Atlas analysis published: Unknown date

Atlas analysis updated: Unknown date

- Company: Defense Metals Corp.

- Ticker: DEFN

- 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: 2026-09-12 00:16:57 UTC

Narrative sentiment: 0.90 · Bullish

## Minestarters Atlas summary

Defense Metals Corp. announced initial drill results from its 2026 program at the Wicheeda Rare Earth Project, highlighting significant high-grade rare earth element mineralization. Key intercepts include 2.86% TREO over 65.1 metres, with a higher-grade section of 6.15% TREO over 20.3 metres. This infill drilling aims to upgrade inferred resources to indicated within the current pit design, with further assay results pending.

Reasoning: Initial drill results from the 2026 program at Wicheeda show significant high-grade rare earth element mineralization over broad widths, supporting the upgrade of inferred resources to indicated within the existing pit design. Strong QA/QC and QP sign-off enhance confidence, though some assays are still pending.

- Positive factor: High-grade intercepts

- Positive factor: Significant widths

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: Within PFS pit confines

- Positive factor: Strong QA/QC disclosure

- Positive factor: QP sign-off

- Positive factor: Certified laboratory

- Negative factor: Assays pending for some intervals

Facts used in scoring: 19

## Classification and evidence

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: The document explicitly states the drilling program included 'resource upgrade and infill drilling' and refers to 'Resource infill drill hole WI26-96'.

Evidence · text

> Resource infill drill hole WI26-96 was collared in sedimentary rocks and drilled towards the Wicheeda Deposit.

**Category Upgrade**

Polarity: positive

Definition: Resource confidence improved — Inferred upgraded to Indicated, or Indicated to Measured. De-risking signal.

Why it applies: The drilling is designed to 'contribute positively to a resource classification uplift' and 'upgrade a significant tonnage of inferred resources... to an indicated or better category'.

Evidence · text

> expected to contribute positively to a resource classification uplift.

**Bonanza Intercept**

Polarity: positive

Definition: Exceptionally high-grade zone, well above the deposit-type norm.

Why it applies: The intercept of 6.15% TREO over 20.3m in WI26-96 is exceptionally high-grade for rare earth elements.

Evidence · table

> 6.15

Context: 20.3

**True Width Estimated**

Polarity: positive

Story-specific tag

Definition: No canonical definition is currently available.

Why it applies: The document states that 'The true width of REE mineralization is estimated to be 70-100% of the drilled interval'.

Evidence · text

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

**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 release includes a dedicated 'Methodology and Quality Assurance/Quality Control' section detailing procedures.

Evidence · text

> Methodology and Quality Assurance/Quality Control

**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: Kristopher J. Raffle, P.Geo. is named as the 'Qualified Person' who 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

**Apparent Width Only**

Polarity: negative

Definition: Interval given as downhole width with no true width or drill orientation — apparent width may overstate true thickness.

Why it applies: While an estimate is provided, the true width is not stated as a single, definitive number, but as a range \(70-100% of drilled interval\).

Evidence · text

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

**Assays Pending**

Polarity: neutral

Story-specific tag

Definition: No canonical definition is currently available.

Why it applies: The release states that 'TREO assays for the remaining 47 m still pending' for drill hole WI26-102.

Evidence · text

> TREO assays for the remaining 47 m still pending.

## 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-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-0)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-86
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-86:1-70.8
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Intercept of 3.69% TREO over 69.8m is a high-grade result over a significant width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: High-grade intercept

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 3.69

Context: 69.8

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-86

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-1)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-86
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

- Grade: 5.03
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 32 m
- From: 3 m
- To: 35 m
- Intercept Depth: 1 m

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-86:3-35
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Sub-interval of 5.03% TREO over 32.0m is a bonanza-grade result over a significant width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: Bonanza intercept

- Positive factor: High-grade intercept

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 5.03

Context: 32.0

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-93

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-2)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-93
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-93:91.6-276
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Broad intercept of 1.70% TREO over 184.4m is a moderate-grade result over an exceptional width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 1.70

Context: 184.4

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-93

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-3)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-93
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

- Grade: 2.52
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 56.7 m
- From: 96.4 m
- To: 153.1 m
- Intercept Depth: 91.6 m

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Sub-interval of 2.52% TREO over 56.7m is a high-grade result over a significant width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: High-grade intercept

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 2.52

Context: 56.7

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-94

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-4)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-94
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-94:77.1-135
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Intercept of 0.82% TREO over 57.9m is a weak-grade result over a significant width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 0.82

Context: 57.9

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-95

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-5)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-95
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-95:64-100
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Intercept of 2.42% TREO over 36.0m is a high-grade result over a significant width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: High-grade intercept

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 2.42

Context: 36.0

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-96

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-6)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-96
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-96:60.9-126
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Intercept of 2.86% TREO over 65.1m is a high-grade result over a significant width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: High-grade intercept

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 2.86

Context: 65.1

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-96

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-7)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-96
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

- Grade: 6.15
- Grade Unit: %
- Intercept: 20.3 m
- From: 93 m
- To: 113.3 m
- Intercept Depth: 60.9 m

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-96:93-113.3
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Sub-interval of 6.15% TREO over 20.3m is a bonanza-grade result over a significant width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: Bonanza intercept

- Positive factor: High-grade intercept

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 6.15

Context: 20.3

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-97

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-8)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-97
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-97:2.9-119
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Intercept of 1.96% TREO over 116.2m is a moderate-grade result over a very good width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 1.96

Context: 116.2

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-98

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-9)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-98
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-98:3.1-122
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Intercept of 1.55% TREO over 119.0m is a moderate-grade result over a very good width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 1.55

Context: 119.0

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-98

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-10)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-98
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-98:3.1-56
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Sub-interval of 2.34% TREO over 53.0m is a high-grade result over a significant width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: High-grade intercept

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 2.34

Context: 53.0

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-99

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-11)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-99
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-99:3.4-115
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Intercept of 1.63% TREO over 111.6m is a moderate-grade result over a very good width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 1.63

Context: 111.6

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-99

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-12)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-99
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-99:3.4-61
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Sub-interval of 2.65% TREO over 57.6m is a high-grade result over a significant width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: High-grade intercept

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 2.65

Context: 57.6

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-100

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-13)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-100
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-100:2.3-151
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Intercept of 1.55% TREO over 148.7m is a moderate-grade result over an exceptional width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 1.55

Context: 148.7

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-100

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-14)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-100
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Sub-interval of 2.40% TREO over 84.6m is a high-grade result over a very good width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: High-grade intercept

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 2.40

Context: 84.6

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-101

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-15)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-101
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-101:2.3-111
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Intercept of 1.99% TREO over 108.8m is a moderate-grade result over a very good width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 1.99

Context: 108.8

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-101

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-16)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-101
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-101:2.3-88
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Sub-interval of 2.40% TREO over 85.8m is a high-grade result over a very good width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization.

- Positive factor: High-grade intercept

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

Evidence · table

> 2.40

Context: 85.8

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-102

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-17)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-102
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Intercept of 2.62% TREO over 73.4m is a high-grade result over a significant width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization, though assays for remaining depth are pending.

- Positive factor: High-grade intercept

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

- Negative factor: Assays pending

Evidence · table

> 2.62

Context: 73.4

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

### WI26-102

[Link to this fact](https://atlas-extractions.minestarters.com/news/defense-metals-resource-upgrade-drilling-intersects-2-86-treo-over-65-metres-inc--6372363a-c414-4eac-80d4-ba1a08bbe8dd#fact-drill-facts-18)

Wicheeda Rare Earth · rare earth elements

#### Identity

- Hole ID: WI26-102
- Project: Wicheeda Rare Earth
- Commodity: rare earth elements
- Region: canada\_bc
- Reported Region: canada\_bc
- Ticker: DEFN

#### Geometry

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

#### Classification

- Deposit Type: other
- Program: resource
- Sample Type: drill
- Group ID: WI26-102:5.7-40
- 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: standards, blanks, duplicates

#### Review

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

#### Dates

- Event date: 2026-09-11T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: Sub-interval of 3.25% TREO over 34.3m is a high-grade result over a significant width, supporting resource upgrade efforts in carbonatite mineralization, though assays for remaining depth are pending.

- Positive factor: High-grade intercept

- Positive factor: Significant width

- Positive factor: Resource upgrade intent

- Positive factor: True width estimated

- Negative factor: Apparent width only

- Negative factor: Assays pending

Evidence · table

> 3.25

Context: 34.3

#### Tags used in scoring

**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: qaqc\_disclosed is true

**Cut-off Undisclosed**

Polarity: negative

Definition: High-grade interval reported without stating the cut-off grade used for compositing.

Why it applies: no cutoff\_grade was stated

**Infill Drilling**

Polarity: neutral

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

Why it applies: drill\_program\_type is "resource"

## 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.