Blackstone Minerals doubles exploration capacity as it steps-up quest for additional Ta Khoa nickel sulphide targets

Blackstone Minerals Ltd (ASX:BSX) has doubled exploration capacity as it accelerates the quest for new nickel sulphide targets at Ta Khoa Nickel-Copper-Platinum Group Elements (PGE) Project in Vietnam.

The company has added a second geophysics crew and three additional drill rigs to its fleet in recognition that geophysics have been highly effective at identifying new targets.

Adding a second geophysics crew will expediate exploration by identifying additional targets for follow-up drilling.

The addition of a fourth Blackstone-owned diamond rig will provide the option to test multiple prospects simultaneously, accelerating future resource upgrades following completion of a maiden resource, scheduled for this quarter.*Progressing "as rapidly as possible"*

Managing director Scott Williamson said: "Blackstone is pleased to announce that we have doubled our exploration capacity to allow us to accelerate our exploration program to rapidly unlock what's shaping up to be a world-class nickel sulphide district at Ta Khoa.

"We have expanded our exploration capacity by adding an additional geophysics crew and a further three drill rigs.

"The additions will ensure we can progress the project as rapidly as possible in a cost-effective manner."