EQ Resources (ASX:EQR) has begun drilling at its Barruecopardo Mine in Spain, representing phase one of its 2026 drilling campaign at the asset.
The program will comprise 36 drill holes across 12,155m, targeting extensions north, south, and below the current open pit.
EQ Resources is following up on the project’s resource estimate, identified in February 2024, as well as its most recent ore reserve update from October 2025.
Drilling intends to support mine life extension, while also improving the company’s understanding of deeper zones planned for mining. Two rigs are currently operating at holes SP01 and SP02 as a part of the initial phase of drilling.
Results will underpin an updated resource estimate, which is expected to be returned around two months following completion of drilling activities.
EQ Resources has budgeted the program at around $2.47 million.
Managing Director Craig Bradshaw says drilling is an “important step” in testing Barruecopardo’s potential, as the system remains open to the north, south, and at depth.
“The program is designed to extend mine life, improve understanding of the deeper zones planned to be mined, and support the next phase of optimisation work at the operation,” Bradshaw says.
Just earlier this week, EQ Resources began water transfer activities at the Barruecopardo Tungsten Project, transferring water from the lower pit into the newly constructed Northern In-Pit Sump.
This operational step is expected to advance operations at Barruecopardo to re-establish access to phase five in the lower pit and higher grade ore feed for processing.
EQ Resources is a global tungsten mining company focused on sustainable mining and processing practices with assets in Australia and Spain.
Write to Maddison Elliott at Mining.com.au
Images: EQ Resources
