NorthWest Announces Target Model at Kwanika with Higher-Grade Zones Over Significant Thicknesses to Support New Strategic Approach

Core Viewpoint - NorthWest Copper has announced a new higher-grade target model for the Kwanika-Stardust project, aiming to enhance the value of the existing Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) through a staged development approach [1][4]. Summary by Sections Target Model Development - A new three-dimensional (3D) target model has been created to better understand the geometry and continuity of higher-grade zones within the current Mineral Resource at Kwanika, focusing on gold assay distribution above 1.0g/t [2][3]. - The target zones are estimated to range between 15 to 30 million tonnes of higher-grade mineralized material, with grades between 1.5% and 2.5% CuEq, and a combined mineralized true width of 30m to 45m [3][8]. Strategic Focus - The CEO emphasized that the creation of the target model is a significant step in the strategy to focus on higher-grade zones at Kwanika, with the initial phase targeting a higher-grade, lower capital cost development project [4][9]. - The higher-grade target zones are categorized into three areas based on their orientations, with two parallel zones separated by up to 20m of unmineralized dykes [5][8]. Drilling and Exploration Plans - Historical drill holes have been reinterpreted in the context of the new target model, with 52 out of 90 drill holes intersecting the target model being selected for further analysis [6][7]. - Additional drilling is planned to confirm and extend the higher-grade target zones, with a phased drill program aiming for a regular 50m drill spacing across some target zones [7][8]. Technical Validation - The target model was developed and peer-reviewed by qualified professionals, ensuring its accuracy and reliability [10][14]. - An independent Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) program has been in place since 2006, utilizing Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) and other control samples to ensure data integrity [22][23][24]. Management Changes - The company announced the appointment of Sapan Bedi as the Interim CFO and Corporate Secretary, effective April 25, 2025, following the departure of Lauren McDougall [11][12][13].