Core Insights - Ero Copper Corp. has announced the completion of its 28,000-meter Phase 1 drill program at the Furnas Copper-Gold Project, revealing high-grade continuity and significant extensions of mineralization to a depth of approximately 950 meters [1][2][4] - The results from the Phase 1 program are expected to serve as a foundation for an updated NI 43-101 compliant mineral resource estimate and a preliminary economic assessment (PEA) scheduled for completion in the first half of 2026 [4][30] Drill Program Highlights - The Phase 1 drill program has confirmed high-grade mineralization continuity and extended known limits of mineralization well beyond previous estimates, with a maximum localized down-dip depth of 580 meters [2][4] - Eight drill rigs are currently operational on-site, with the Phase 2 drill program expected to complete 17,000 meters ahead of schedule in early Q4 2025 [3][4] Mineral Resource Estimates - The initial NI 43-101 compliant mineral resource estimate, effective June 30, 2024, includes: - Indicated Mineral Resource: 35.2 million tonnes grading 1.04% copper and 0.69 grams per tonne gold (1.36% CuEq) [10] - Inferred Mineral Resource: 61.3 million tonnes grading 1.06% copper and 0.63 grams per tonne gold (1.36% CuEq) [10] - The mineral resource estimate is based on approximately 90,000 meters of historical drilling and highlights the project's significant potential [8][10] Project Location and Infrastructure - The Furnas Copper-Gold Project is located in the Carajás Mineral Province in Pará State, Brazil, approximately 50 kilometers southeast of Vale Base Metals' Salobo operations [6][31] - The project covers an area of approximately 2,400 hectares and is situated near extensive regional infrastructure, including paved roads and a power substation [6] Strategic Partnerships - In July 2024, Ero Copper signed an earn-in agreement with Salobo Metais S.A., a subsidiary of Vale Base Metals, to acquire a 60% interest in the project upon meeting specific exploration and development milestones [7][31]