Defense Metals Strengthens Leadership for Wicheeda Project

Project execution is being enhanced with the support of new executive appointments when Defense Metals continues working on the development of rare earth, which is critical.

Defense Metals Corp. has appointed Robin Jones as its Vice President, Projects, as it continues to build its leadership in the company in developing its flagship Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Project in British Columbia. The relocation is an indication of the strategic action in the metals and mining industry, as there is an increase in the demand of the critical minerals that are in support of defense, clean energy, and sophisticated manufacturing.

Jones has over 30 years of experience in international work throughout the metals and mining value chain, including feasibility studies, detailed engineering, construction, commissioning, and operational preparation. He has experience in various commodities such as rare earth elements, uranium, copper, nickel, and platinum group metals. Most recently, he served in top positions at Northern Minerals Ltd., where he headed definitive feasibility studies and the development and operation of a heavy rare earth pilot plant.

According to Defense Metals, Jones's technical knowledge and project delivery experience will be vital to Wicheeda as it progresses to the advanced level of engineering and development. The project is deemed to be one of the most developed undeveloped rare earth deposits in North America that is backed by a 2025 pre-feasibility study that has been prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 standards.

With the global supply chains focusing on finding safe sources of essential minerals, the appointment puts the company in a position to implement its development plans effectively in the competitive metals and mining environment.