Apex Critical Metals Nears Key Exploration Milestone with Drilling Campaign

Apex Critical Metals CA03753D1042

The transition from planning to active exploration is now imminent for Apex Critical Metals. The company has secured a drilling contractor and is poised to commence a significant program at its Nebraska-based rare earth elements project, following recent regulatory approval. This move marks a pivotal operational shift for the resource firm.

A crucial permit was granted to Apex Critical Metals by the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment on January 5, 2026. The speed of the subsequent operational progress highlights management's focused execution. Within days of the permit announcement, the company finalized a drilling contract and initiated mobilization, signaling a swift advancement toward its field objectives.

The project, known as the Rift Rare Earth Project, is situated within the Elk Creek Carbonatite Complex in southeastern Nebraska. This geological setting is recognized as prospective for critical metals, with historical findings indicating the presence of niobium and rare earth elements (REE). The forthcoming drilling aims to verify and potentially expand upon these known high-grade REE intervals.

Contract Awarded for Major Diamond Drilling Program

On January 12, 2026, Apex Critical Metals reported entering into a contract with Boart Longyear to execute the upcoming drill campaign. This engagement effectively moves the Rift Project into an implementation phase. The internationally recognized drilling services provider brings a distinct advantage to the operation, having recently been active at the neighboring Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project. This regional expertise and familiarity with local geology are expected to streamline logistics and reduce startup risks for Apex.

The technical parameters for the initial phase are well-defined:
* A planned total of approximately 8,000 meters of diamond drilling.
* The program will consist of between 10 and 15 individual drill holes.
* Equipment mobilization is underway, with drilling operations scheduled to begin before the end of January 2026.

CEO Sean Charland has characterized the company's momentum as "rapid progress" toward the first drilling phase. Apex is supported in this endeavor by Dahrouge Geological Consulting alongside Boart Longyear, forming a team structured to methodically assess the area's mineralization potential.

Market Sentiment Reflects Project Advancement

The series of positive operational updates has been met with a strong response from investors. Share prices have experienced substantial upward movement, gaining approximately 79% over the past month. Year-to-date, the advance stands at nearly 229%. Currently trading at €2.10, the equity is positioned notably above its 200-day moving average, reflecting the sustained positive trend observed in recent months.

The confirmation of a concrete drilling schedule acts as a clear catalyst for the market. It provides a tangible timeline for when initial technical results can be anticipated, a fundamental factor in the valuation methodology for exploration-stage companies.

Key Details at a Glance:
* Drilling Contractor: Boart Longyear engaged for the Rift Project.
* Program Scale: Roughly 8,000 meters across 10–15 diamond drill holes.
* Project Location: Elk Creek Carbonatite Complex, Nebraska.
* Current Status: Permit secured; drilling start planned for January 2026.
* Market Performance: Sharply positive share price trajectory in recent weeks.

Forward Look: Execution and Results Take Center Stage

The immediate focus is the official commencement of drilling, anticipated this month. Successfully mobilizing the drill rigs will demonstrate Apex's operational and financial readiness for this first major test phase. For the weeks ahead, the execution of the 8,000-meter program and the subsequent release of initial assay results will undoubtedly set the tone for further news flow and influence the market's appraisal of the Rift Rare Earth Project's prospects.