#United States #Antimony #San Bernardino #Locksley Resources #Mojave Project

Locksley Resources Ups the Ante in Critical Minerals Exploration

Introduction
In a significant development, Locksley Resources (ASX: LKY; OTCQB: LKYRF) has revealed its expanded Plan of Operations for the Desert Antimony Prospect, part of the Mojave Critical Minerals Project situated in California. This initiative signals the company's commitment to enhancing its operational footprint and capitalizing on the increasing demand for essential minerals in the United States.

Strategic Importance of Mojave Project
Located approximately three kilometers northeast of MP Materials’ Mountain Pass Mine, which is the only operational rare earths mine in the U.S., the Desert Antimony Prospect plays a crucial role in the nation’s effort to secure domestic supply chains for critical materials. Nathan Lude, chairman of Locksley, emphasized, “Our location positions us extremely well to take advantage of America's drive toward securing domestic supply chains for critical materials.”
Locksley’s recent oversubscribed capital raising further fuels this expanded operational program, enabling the company to enhance its exploration initiatives.

Drilling Program Details
Recent geological surveys and advanced 3D modeling have been instrumental in identifying a larger target area for drilling. The company aims to establish a JORC Exploration Target through further evaluations in these sites. Bolstered by anticipated BLM approvals this fall, site preparation and drilling activities are expected to commence swiftly, marking a pivotal step in the exploration timeline.

Exploration Potential
Locksley Resources is actively advancing the Mojave Project, which encompasses over 250 claims across two distinct prospect areas: the North Block/Northeast Block and the El Campo Prospect. Significantly, the North Block abuts claims held by MP Materials, while the El Campo Prospect aligns with the geological continuity of the Mountain Pass Mine, signifying potent exploration potential.

The Mojave Project also includes the historic Desert Antimony Mine, which ceased operations in 1937. Despite a scarcity of domestic antimony production, the demand for this metal remains robust due to its vital application in defense systems, semiconductor manufacturing, and metal alloys. Surface samples from the Desert Mine have demonstrated impressive grades, reaching up to 46% antimony (Sb) and silver concentrations of up to 1,022 g/t.

Geopolitical Context
The urgency to diversify supply chains, particularly concerning rare earth elements and antimony, underscores Locksley’s strategic positioning in North America. As geopolitical tensions rise, there is a pressing need to reduce dependence on China, the world's leading producer of these critical minerals. The U.S. Administration is focusing on enhancing security of supply, driving further exploration and development initiatives.

Conclusion
As Locksley Resources embarks on this expanded drilling program, the prospects for further exploration of critical minerals in the Mojave Desert seem promising. With the backing of robust market demand and strategic geological positioning, Locksley is poised to become a significant player in the U.S. critical minerals landscape.

For detailed insights on the drilling program, visit Locksley Resources. For media inquiries, contact Beverly Jedynak at 312-943-1123.