First Atlantic Nickel Extends Strike Length of RPM Zone Discovery by 400 Meters, Intersecting .23% Nickel Over 396 Meters in Fourth Drill Hole

Core Insights - First Atlantic Nickel Corp. has reported positive assay results from drill hole AN-24-05, confirming a 400-meter north-south mineralized strike length at the RPM Zone, with an average of 0.23% nickel and 0.29% chromium over 396 meters [1][4][7] - The Phase 1 drilling program has established a 400-meter by 500-meter mineralized footprint at the RPM Zone, with all four drill holes ending in mineralization, indicating significant potential for further expansion [2][5][11] - Phase 2 drilling commenced on May 7, 2025, targeting extensions of the RPM Zone in multiple directions, with ongoing metallurgical testing to assess the suitability of the mineralization for commercial processing [2][10][17] Phase 1 Drilling Results - Drill hole AN-24-05 intersected 396 meters grading 0.23% nickel and 0.29% chromium, starting after 6 meters of overburden [4][6] - The hole reached a total depth of 402 meters and ended in mineralization, indicating further expansion potential [4][7] - Awaruite mineralization was consistently observed across all Phase 1 holes, reinforcing the potential for additional discoveries [5][22] Phase 2 Drilling Program - The fully funded Phase 2 program aims to expand the mineralized footprint established in Phase 1, with strategic step-out drilling planned in various directions [10][11] - The program will explore deeper mineralization and assess geological continuity between the RPM Zone and nearby areas [12][11] - Enhanced drilling capabilities and full road access are expected to improve efficiency and reduce costs during the Phase 2 program [11][10] Metallurgical Testing - Davis Tube Recovery (DTR) testing is underway for drill holes AN-24-04 and AN-24-05 to evaluate magnetically recoverable nickel content [17][22] - Initial DTR results from earlier holes indicated an average of ~1.35% nickel in magnetic concentrates, supporting a low-energy processing approach [17][22] - The processing method aligns with sustainable development objectives and North America's critical minerals strategy, particularly in light of new regulations under the US Inflation Reduction Act [22][31] District-Scale Potential - The RPM Zone is part of a 30-kilometer ultramafic ophiolite nickel trend, with significant exploration upside across the region [2][5] - Historical drilling and recent discoveries have confirmed the presence of awaruite mineralization across a 26-kilometer strike length within the Atlantic Nickel Project [5][22] - Awaruite's unique properties allow for cleaner processing compared to conventional nickel sources, enhancing North America's domestic critical minerals supply chain [22][25]