Lithium Ionic Achieves Major Milestones at Bandeira Lithium Project in Brazil
TORONTO, February 12, 2026 – Lithium Ionic Corp. (TSXV: LTH; OTCQX: LTHCF; FSE: H3N) has announced substantial engineering and commercial progress at its fully-owned Bandeira Lithium Project, located in the globally significant Lithium Valley region of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The company reports that the project is rapidly advancing toward construction-ready status, with engineering now 48% complete since the feasibility study was released in September 2025.
Engineering Advancements and Construction Preparation
Engineering activities at Bandeira have progressed significantly across multiple parallel workstreams. Basic engineering has been completed on major design packages, including plant engineering and primary civil engineering for roads, plant areas, and buildings. Detailed engineering for raw water and drainage systems is in its final stages, while infrastructure and long-lead tenders are being deployed according to the project schedule.
The company has engaged Lycopodium for basic plant engineering, which has established key equipment selection, layout parameters, and design criteria for the processing facility. Mine access and site infrastructure engineering are progressing in an integrated manner, with basic engineering for these elements substantially completed. This progress supports the launch of tendering for mine underground contractors and mine fleet procurement.
Commercial Momentum and Market Conditions
Commercial momentum is accelerating as Lithium Ionic has received multiple offtake and debt-financing term sheets and is advancing toward binding agreements. This progress comes amid materially stronger lithium market conditions compared to when the feasibility study was completed, reinforcing confidence in the project's long-term value proposition.
Blake Hylands, P.Geo., CEO of Lithium Ionic, commented: "Bandeira is now firmly in the execution phase. With a technically robust and optimized feasibility study in-hand, our focus has shifted to disciplined delivery – advancing engineering, securing the right commercial partnerships, and preparing the project for construction. Our objective is clear: to bring Brazil's next high-quality, low-cost lithium operation into production with the right foundations in place."
Underground Mine Development Planning
Underground mine development planning is advancing with NCL Ingeniería y Construcción SpA mobilized to complete the detailed underground mine plan and schedule, targeted for April 2026. This comprehensive planning approach ensures that all aspects of the mining operation are properly coordinated and optimized for efficiency and safety.
The Bandeira Project represents a significant development in Brazil's lithium mining sector, positioned to capitalize on growing global demand for lithium resources essential for battery production and clean energy technologies. With engineering nearly halfway to completion and commercial discussions advancing, Lithium Ionic is positioning itself as a key player in the global lithium supply chain.
