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Viking Mines Limited (ASX:VKA) has announced assay outcomes from a 52-sample tailings characterisation programme at its Linka Tungsten Project in Nevada, USA, revealing consistently low residual tungsten grades. This suggests that historical processing effectively recovered most tungsten from the mined ore. The thickness-weighted average grade across all samples was just 0.03% WO3, with a peak value of 0.15% WO3, which the company terms an "extremely positive technical outcome." These results complement recent metallurgical testwork that yielded a 56.9% WO3 concentrate at 76% recovery. The maiden reverse circulation (RC) drilling campaign is on track to begin in July 2026, marking the first drill testing of the Linka primary tungsten system in over 40 years.<\/p> <\/div>
Key Points<\/h3>
- Company: Viking Mines Limited (ASX: VKA, OTCID: VKALF)<\/li>
- All 52 tailings samples from Linka Tungsten Project, Nevada, assayed, returning a thickness-weighted average of 0.03% WO3 and a maximum of 0.15% WO3<\/li>
- Low residual grades indicate efficient historical tungsten recovery from Linka ore<\/li>
- Recent metallurgical testwork produced a 56.9% WO3 concentrate at 76% recovery<\/li>
- Maiden RC drilling rig mobilisation expected to start the week of 6 July 2026, with rig arrival onsite anticipated mid-July 2026<\/li>
- Pre-drilling earthworks scheduled for the week of 13 July 2026<\/li>
- Linka Main stockpile, separate from tailings, previously averaged 0.4% WO3 across 41 samples and is being assessed as a potential source of initial concentrates for offtake evaluation<\/li>
- Investors should monitor maiden RC drilling results, TOMRA ore sorting assay outcomes, and Conquest stockpile phase 2 sampling results<\/li>
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Findings from the 52-Sample Tailings Programme at Linka, Nevada<\/h2>
Initiated in April 2026, Viking Mines' tailings characterisation programme aimed to evaluate whether the historical tailings dam could serve as a meaningful supplemental feed source for future operations. Fifty-two samples were collected across the tailings dam and independently assayed. The full dataset reveals uniformly low residual tungsten grades throughout the facility.<\/p>
The thickness-weighted average grade was 0.03% WO3, with the highest individual sample at 0.15% WO3. Viking concluded that the tailings dam is unlikely to provide significant supplemental feed. However, these low residual grades positively indicate that historical operations extracted tungsten from the ore with high efficiency.<\/p>
Implications of Low Residual Tailings Grades for Linka's Metallurgy<\/h2>
Viking Mines interprets the consistently low residual tungsten in tailings as evidence of effective historical processing plant performance, with minimal tungsten lost to tailings. This suggests Linka ore responded well to processing methods employed at the time.<\/p>
While precise historical recovery rates cannot be confirmed due to limited records on mill feed, head grade, concentrate grades, and tonnages, the company believes the combination of production records and low tailings grades supports the prospect of strong tungsten recoveries using modern processing techniques. Viking emphasizes this is an interpretation rather than a confirmed historical recovery figure.<\/p>
CEO Julian Woodcock Comments on Tailings Results and Upcoming Drilling<\/h2>
Managing Director and CEO Julian Woodcock described the tailings programme as delivering "a useful and positive result," noting the minimal tungsten left in tailings supports the view of efficient historical recovery from Linka ore. He called this a "constructive read-through" ahead of the maiden drilling campaign.<\/p>
Woodcock highlighted the comprehensive technical framework now established at Linka, encompassing low residual tailings grades, a quality 56.9% WO3 concentrate from recent testwork at 76% recovery, and imminent drilling. He stated the company's focus is on testing primary mineralisation and strengthening the technical case for Linka. These comments were authorized by Viking Mines’ board and reflect the current technical assessment.<\/p>
Recent Metallurgical Testwork Yields 56.9% WO3 Concentrate at 76% Recovery<\/h2>
Beyond tailings data, Viking Mines’ confidence in Linka's metallurgy is grounded in its own recent testwork announced on 10 June 2026. This produced a high-quality concentrate grading 56.9% WO3 with a 76% recovery rate, providing a solid foundation for further optimisation efforts.<\/p>
The 76% recovery marks an improvement over earlier tests, with potential for additional optimisation, although specific pathways were not disclosed. Viking presents the combined tailings and testwork results as converging technical evidence supporting the project's processing characteristics ahead of maiden drilling.<\/p>
Linka Main Stockpile Versus Tailings Dam: Distinct Datasets and Implications<\/h2>
The tailings dam results are separate from the Linka Main stockpile evaluation. The stockpile previously returned an average grade of 0.4% WO3 across 41 samples, and a 97.8 kilogram metallurgical sample (LKMET0001) yielded 0.8% WO3—significantly higher than tailings grades, reflecting different material types.<\/p>
Viking continues to assess the Linka Main stockpile as a potential source of initial concentrates for offtake evaluation, suggesting it could represent a near-term production or trial pathway complementary to the upcoming drilling programme. No timeline or definitive decision has been disclosed regarding the stockpile’s role in future production, and both workstreams remain ongoing.<\/p>
Maiden RC Drilling Mobilisation Scheduled for Early July 2026<\/h2>
Viking Mines confirmed the maiden Reverse Circulation drilling campaign at Linka remains on schedule for July 2026. The drill rig is undergoing final maintenance and testing, with mobilisation expected to begin the week of 6 July 2026, following the US Independence Day holiday on 4 July.<\/p>
The rig is expected onsite by mid-July 2026, with pre-drilling earthworks planned for the week of 13 July 2026. This campaign will be the first drill testing of the Linka primary tungsten system in over 40 years, following preparatory stockpile sampling, tailings characterisation, and metallurgical testwork completed over recent months. The drilling will provide the first direct assessment of primary mineralisation at depth.<\/p>
Objectives of the Maiden RC Drilling at Linka<\/h2>
The maiden RC drilling represents a significant advancement beyond surface and stockpile sampling, aiming to test the primary tungsten mineralisation within the underlying rock. Viking views this as a critical step in building the technical case for Linka as a potential primary mining and processing operation.<\/p>
The company has not disclosed specifics such as the number of holes, total drilling metres, target depths, or costs. Investors should watch for future updates as the programme progresses. Viking regards this drilling campaign as a major value-inflection event, with prior tailings and metallurgical data providing essential context for interpreting results.<\/p>
Pending TOMRA Ore Sorting and Conquest Stockpile Phase 2 Results<\/h2>
In addition to drilling, Viking Mines is awaiting assay results from TOMRA ore sorting test products, a pre-concentration technology that could enhance processing efficiency at Linka. TOMRA ore sorting is widely used in the minerals industry, and its application here indicates ongoing efforts to optimise processing.<\/p>
The company also expects results from phase 2 sampling of the Conquest stockpile, distinct from the Linka Main stockpile evaluation. No specific timelines were provided for these assays, which remain near-term catalysts alongside maiden RC drilling results, collectively expected to advance the technical and commercial understanding of Linka.<\/p>
Viking Mines’ Integrated Approach to De-Risking Linka<\/h2>
The recent sequence of programmes—high-grade stockpile sampling, tailings characterisation, metallurgical testwork, ore sorting trials, and now maiden drilling—reflects a systematic strategy to reduce project risk across multiple technical areas. Each workstream addresses distinct questions: stockpile sampling for near-term feed potential, tailings for historical processing efficiency, metallurgical testwork for modern processing baselines, and drilling to define primary resource characteristics at depth.<\/p>
Listed on the ASX and US OTC markets under ticker VKALF, Viking Mines benefits from exposure to both Australian and North American investors, pertinent given Linka's Nevada location. The company operates from West Perth, Western Australia. The immediate market impact of the tailings and drilling updates was not evident at publication. Investors should review all company disclosures and consider exploration risks before making investment decisions.<\/p>
Competent Person Statement and Regulatory Information<\/h2>
The exploration results were compiled by Julian Woodcock, Managing Director and CEO of Viking Mines, a member of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (MAusIMM (CP) – 305446). Woodcock is a full-time employee and has sufficient experience relevant to the mineralisation style and deposit type to qualify as a Competent Person under the 2012 JORC Code. He has consented to the disclosure of this information in the form and context presented.<\/p>
As typical for exploration-stage companies, the update contains forward-looking statements about planned exploration and milestones, which involve risks and uncertainties. No assurance is given that actual outcomes will align with these statements. Investors are advised to read all company materials thoroughly. This article is based solely on publicly released information and does not constitute financial advice.<\/p>
Findings from the 52-Sample Tailings Programme at Linka, Nevada<\/h2>
Initiated in April 2026, Viking Mines' tailings characterisation programme aimed to evaluate whether the historical tailings dam could serve as a meaningful supplemental feed source for future operations. Fifty-two samples were collected across the tailings dam and independently assayed. The full dataset reveals uniformly low residual tungsten grades throughout the facility.<\/p>
The thickness-weighted average grade was 0.03% WO3, with the highest individual sample at 0.15% WO3. Viking concluded that the tailings dam is unlikely to provide significant supplemental feed. However, these low residual grades positively indicate that historical operations extracted tungsten from the ore with high efficiency.<\/p>
Implications of Low Residual Tailings Grades for Linka's Metallurgy<\/h2>
Viking Mines interprets the consistently low residual tungsten in tailings as evidence of effective historical processing plant performance, with minimal tungsten lost to tailings. This suggests Linka ore responded well to processing methods employed at the time.<\/p>
While precise historical recovery rates cannot be confirmed due to limited records on mill feed, head grade, concentrate grades, and tonnages, the company believes the combination of production records and low tailings grades supports the prospect of strong tungsten recoveries using modern processing techniques. Viking emphasizes this is an interpretation rather than a confirmed historical recovery figure.<\/p>
CEO Julian Woodcock Comments on Tailings Results and Upcoming Drilling<\/h2>
Managing Director and CEO Julian Woodcock described the tailings programme as delivering "a useful and positive result," noting the minimal tungsten left in tailings supports the view of efficient historical recovery from Linka ore. He called this a "constructive read-through" ahead of the maiden drilling campaign.<\/p>
Woodcock highlighted the comprehensive technical framework now established at Linka, encompassing low residual tailings grades, a quality 56.9% WO3 concentrate from recent testwork at 76% recovery, and imminent drilling. He stated the company's focus is on testing primary mineralisation and strengthening the technical case for Linka. These comments were authorized by Viking Mines’ board and reflect the current technical assessment.<\/p>
Recent Metallurgical Testwork Yields 56.9% WO3 Concentrate at 76% Recovery<\/h2>
Beyond tailings data, Viking Mines’ confidence in Linka's metallurgy is grounded in its own recent testwork announced on 10 June 2026. This produced a high-quality concentrate grading 56.9% WO3 with a 76% recovery rate, providing a solid foundation for further optimisation efforts.<\/p>
The 76% recovery marks an improvement over earlier tests, with potential for additional optimisation, although specific pathways were not disclosed. Viking presents the combined tailings and testwork results as converging technical evidence supporting the project's processing characteristics ahead of maiden drilling.<\/p>
Linka Main Stockpile Versus Tailings Dam: Distinct Datasets and Implications<\/h2>
The tailings dam results are separate from the Linka Main stockpile evaluation. The stockpile previously returned an average grade of 0.4% WO3 across 41 samples, and a 97.8 kilogram metallurgical sample (LKMET0001) yielded 0.8% WO3—significantly higher than tailings grades, reflecting different material types.<\/p>
Viking continues to assess the Linka Main stockpile as a potential source of initial concentrates for offtake evaluation, suggesting it could represent a near-term production or trial pathway complementary to the upcoming drilling programme. No timeline or definitive decision has been disclosed regarding the stockpile’s role in future production, and both workstreams remain ongoing.<\/p>
Maiden RC Drilling Mobilisation Scheduled for Early July 2026<\/h2>
Viking Mines confirmed the maiden Reverse Circulation drilling campaign at Linka remains on schedule for July 2026. The drill rig is undergoing final maintenance and testing, with mobilisation expected to begin the week of 6 July 2026, following the US Independence Day holiday on 4 July.<\/p>
The rig is expected onsite by mid-July 2026, with pre-drilling earthworks planned for the week of 13 July 2026. This campaign will be the first drill testing of the Linka primary tungsten system in over 40 years, following preparatory stockpile sampling, tailings characterisation, and metallurgical testwork completed over recent months. The drilling will provide the first direct assessment of primary mineralisation at depth.<\/p>
Objectives of the Maiden RC Drilling at Linka<\/h2>
The maiden RC drilling represents a significant advancement beyond surface and stockpile sampling, aiming to test the primary tungsten mineralisation within the underlying rock. Viking views this as a critical step in building the technical case for Linka as a potential primary mining and processing operation.<\/p>
The company has not disclosed specifics such as the number of holes, total drilling metres, target depths, or costs. Investors should watch for future updates as the programme progresses. Viking regards this drilling campaign as a major value-inflection event, with prior tailings and metallurgical data providing essential context for interpreting results.<\/p>
Pending TOMRA Ore Sorting and Conquest Stockpile Phase 2 Results<\/h2>
In addition to drilling, Viking Mines is awaiting assay results from TOMRA ore sorting test products, a pre-concentration technology that could enhance processing efficiency at Linka. TOMRA ore sorting is widely used in the minerals industry, and its application here indicates ongoing efforts to optimise processing.<\/p>
The company also expects results from phase 2 sampling of the Conquest stockpile, distinct from the Linka Main stockpile evaluation. No specific timelines were provided for these assays, which remain near-term catalysts alongside maiden RC drilling results, collectively expected to advance the technical and commercial understanding of Linka.<\/p>
Viking Mines’ Integrated Approach to De-Risking Linka<\/h2>
The recent sequence of programmes—high-grade stockpile sampling, tailings characterisation, metallurgical testwork, ore sorting trials, and now maiden drilling—reflects a systematic strategy to reduce project risk across multiple technical areas. Each workstream addresses distinct questions: stockpile sampling for near-term feed potential, tailings for historical processing efficiency, metallurgical testwork for modern processing baselines, and drilling to define primary resource characteristics at depth.<\/p>
Listed on the ASX and US OTC markets under ticker VKALF, Viking Mines benefits from exposure to both Australian and North American investors, pertinent given Linka's Nevada location. The company operates from West Perth, Western Australia. The immediate market impact of the tailings and drilling updates was not evident at publication. Investors should review all company disclosures and consider exploration risks before making investment decisions.<\/p>
Competent Person Statement and Regulatory Information<\/h2>
The exploration results were compiled by Julian Woodcock, Managing Director and CEO of Viking Mines, a member of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (MAusIMM (CP) – 305446). Woodcock is a full-time employee and has sufficient experience relevant to the mineralisation style and deposit type to qualify as a Competent Person under the 2012 JORC Code. He has consented to the disclosure of this information in the form and context presented.<\/p>
As typical for exploration-stage companies, the update contains forward-looking statements about planned exploration and milestones, which involve risks and uncertainties. No assurance is given that actual outcomes will align with these statements. Investors are advised to read all company materials thoroughly. This article is based solely on publicly released information and does not constitute financial advice.<\/p>
