en.Wedoany.com Reported - On August 7, Resolution Copper, a joint venture between Rio Tinto and BHP, announced it has awarded engineering contracts totaling approximately $110 million to Major Drilling America and Redpath USA to advance exploration and early underground development at the proposed Resolution Copper mine in the United States. These contracts represent the first significant expenditures under the project's approximately $500 million pre-investment plan.

Major Drilling America will conduct deep-hole directional diamond core drilling over a two-and-a-half-year period, covering operations at surface and approximately 2,070 meters underground to gather additional ore body data. The project will deploy four high-capacity surface core drills, two of which—LF-350 rigs—have already arrived on site, while two LF-300 rigs are currently being manufactured and are scheduled for delivery by the end of 2026.

Redpath USA is responsible for the first phase of underground development, including converting two existing shafts, each approximately 2,130 meters deep, from shaft-sinking status into underground development facilities, and installing new structural steel and supporting infrastructure. The company will also construct a new underground mine station at approximately 2,070 meters below surface, with work scope including approximately 457 meters of drifts, vehicle and drill operating areas, maintenance workshops, and other facilities.

Following the completion of the land exchange in March 2026, the Resolution Copper project launched an approximately $500 million, two-year pre-investment program covering supplemental drilling, upgrades to existing facilities, early underground development, and community-related work. The project is 55% owned and operated by Rio Tinto, with BHP holding a 45% stake.

These contracts are expected to add 100 full-time positions at Resolution Copper, with the first 50 roles already being recruited and the remaining 50 positions planned to be posted within the next six months. The project will continue to advance engineering design, state-level permitting, and other pre-work activities, with the final investment decision subject to further data collection, regulatory approvals, and approval from both joint venture partners.