SAGA Metals Corp., a North American exploration company specializing in critical mineral discoveries, has officially launched the 2026 phase of its maiden Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) drill program. This significant initiative is taking place at the Trapper Zone within the company's fully owned Radar Titanium-Vanadium-Iron Project located in Labrador, Canada.
Drilling Resumes with Strategic Focus
Following the successful return of the SAGA technical team and the Gladiator Drilling crew to the project site near Cartwright, drilling operations have recommenced. The primary objective of this next phase is to expand and confirm the extensive oxide zones that were identified during previous drilling campaigns. The program represents a crucial step in advancing the project toward a comprehensive mineral resource assessment.
Detailed Drill Plan and Methodology
The initial hole, designated R-0016, has already commenced on Section S8. Upon its completion, the drilling rig will relocate to Section S4, which is the southernmost section of the Trapper South anomaly. From there, the operation will systematically progress northward along the eastern limb of the anomaly. A total of 30 drill holes are planned for Trapper South, with the first 10 to be executed in a structured sequence.
The drilling sequence is outlined as follows:
- Holes R-0016 to R-0020: These will test the Eastern anomaly, aiming to correlate with and expand upon the results obtained from earlier holes R-0012 and R-0013.
- Holes R-0021 to R-0025: The focus will shift to the southern portion of the Western anomaly, starting at Section S4 and moving northward along the western limb.
It is anticipated that these initial holes will be completed within approximately five weeks. After this phase, drilling activities will transition to the central portion of Trapper South, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the target area.
Technical Specifications and Geological Context
All drill holes are designed with a -45° dip and a 38° N-NE azimuth. This configuration is intended to target a prospective zone characterized by rhythmic banding, specifically oxide layering, which is expected to range from 125 to 200 meters in width. The 2026 drill program builds upon intercepts drilled in the fourth quarter of 2025, which demonstrated consistent high-grade mineralization of titanium, vanadium, and iron. These earlier results included significant oxide concentrations across multiple zones, highlighting the project's potential.
Leadership Perspective on the Program
Michael Garagan, Chief Geologist and Director of SAGA Metals, emphasized the importance of this drilling resumption. He stated, "This resumption of drilling marks a critical step forward in our Mineral Resource Estimate program at Trapper. Technical teams returned last week and were diligent in completing a full assay core review of all returned sampling, correlating anomalies to observed lithology and structures, and preparing trails and drill pads. Gladiator Drilling arrived on site shortly thereafter and made quick work of the set up on the Eastern anomaly of Trapper South where drilling has commenced. With strong continuity already observed, we are methodically drilling toward a maiden mineral resource and aiming to unlock the district-scale potential of Radar."
Visual Documentation and Project Significance
The drilling program is supported by detailed visual documentation, including cross-sections and core samples. For instance, drill core from hole R-0016 exhibits a high degree of magnetism, as demonstrated by a magnet pen standing straight up, which underscores the oxide-rich nature of the core. This visual evidence reinforces the geological promise of the Radar Project.
The Radar Titanium-Vanadium-Iron Project is situated in a region known for its rich mineral deposits, and this drill program is poised to contribute valuable data toward establishing a maiden mineral resource estimate. The focus on critical minerals aligns with growing global demand for these essential resources, particularly in sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and manufacturing.
As SAGA Metals progresses with its 2026 MRE drill program, the company remains committed to methodical exploration and resource development. The outcomes of this phase are expected to provide deeper insights into the mineralization patterns and economic potential of the Radar Project, positioning it as a significant asset in Canada's critical minerals landscape.
