Blencowe Resources (BRES) said graphite from its Orom-Cross Project in Uganda is progressing into specialist anti-radar and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other defence platforms, opening a potential high-value offtake opportunity.
The company is working with three European manufacturers of advanced aerial platforms, with one potential offtake relationship now at an advanced commercial stage. Completion remains subject to ongoing flight testing, final technical inputs and documentation.
The application uses ultra-fine M635 material grading 97% Total Graphitic Carbon (TGC), with indicative pricing approaching US$20,000 per tonne FOB.
Testing has also highlighted the electrical conductivity and naturally occurring characteristics of Orom-Cross graphite that may help reduce electromagnetic signatures. In addition, experimental work has demonstrated hydrophobic properties that could benefit aerial platforms exposed to fog, rain and other adverse conditions.
Material from Orom-Cross is already being used in high-fidelity demonstration projects in real application environments. The latest work builds on previous successful testing in aerospace and rocket propulsion applications, supporting the project's progression towards commercial end-use adoption.
Blencowe said existing non-binding offtake coverage already exceeds its planned 20,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) Phase 1 production target. The company is continuing to optimise its sales mix towards higher-value products while building the broader offtake book required for its planned 70,000 tpa Phase 2 production.
Meanwhile, Phase 1 funding discussions continue, with the company focused on securing a project-level structure designed to support development while minimising dilution at plc level. Discussions around a potentially significant tier-one offtake are also well advanced, with final technical and commercial inputs being completed.
Blencowe’s Executive Chairman Cameron Pearce said: “This latest work further demonstrates the quality and versatility of Orom-Cross graphite products and the value that can be captured by moving beyond conventional concentrate sales into specialist, higher-value applications.”
“Western customers are increasingly seeking high-quality graphite products from non-Chinese sources to reduce geopolitical and supply-chain risk. We believe Orom-Cross is exceptionally well positioned for this shift, and the emergence of specialist opportunities such as these further strengthens the commercial case for the Project."
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The latest testing adds another potentially valuable end market for Orom-Cross graphite, with specialist defence applications offering significantly higher pricing than conventional concentrate sales. Progress towards an advanced offtake relationship also provides encouraging evidence of the project's broader commercialisation potential.