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Xcalibur Smart Mapping Expands North American Operations with Air Tractor Aircraft for Critical Mineral Exploration

Air Tractor is renowned for their maneuverability and stability at low altitudes, which will significantly enhance both precision and accuracy in data collection.

 

Avión Air Tractor AT-145 amarillo de Xcalibur Smart Mapping en vuelo
Air Tractor aircraft

Xcalibur Smart Mapping, the global leader in airborne geophysics, with over 40 aircrafts, today announced a significant expansion of its North American operations with the addition of Air Tractor aircraft to its fleet. These specialized aircraft will be deployed in Canada and the United States to conduct low-level, high-resolution surveys aimed at accelerating the discovery and development of critical minerals essential for the transition to a sustainable energy future. 

With a proven track record of over 1,400 successful projects across six continents, Xcalibur Smart Mapping continues to lead in providing innovative geophysical solutions for mapping and assessing natural resources. This milestone is the result of a collaborative effort between teams from South Africa and Canada, leveraging Canada’s extensive experience in aerial surveys and ensuring compliance with local safety and data quality standards. 

The introduction of Air Tractor aircraft, renowned for their maneuverability and stability at low altitudes, significantly enhances the company’s ability to deliver precise and detailed data for critical mineral exploration projects. After two years of dedicated work and recognizing the sector’s need for more efficient geophysical surveys, Xcalibur Smart Mapping developed an Air Tractor capable of geophysical survey equipped with an auxiliary fuel tank to extend aircraft endurance. This groundbreaking project was made possible through collaboration with Metal Innovations Aero in Oregon, USA. 

The Air Tractor is approved for low-level geophysical survey with MAG/RAD (Magnetics and Radiometric) and iCORUS-X™ technology, allowing for greater accuracy in data collection, particularly in areas with challenging topography. The high-resolution surveys conducted by Xcalibur Smart Mapping will provide valuable insights into the distribution and concentration of critical minerals, aiding in the identification of potential deposits and informing resource development strategies. 

“We are thrilled to expand our operations in North America with the addition of Air Tractor aircraft,” said Andres Blanco, CEO of Xcalibur Smart Mapping. “These aircraft, combined with our state-of-the-art geophysical technology and expertise, will enable us to conduct surveys with unprecedented precision, contributing to the responsible discovery and development of critical minerals vital for a sustainable future.” 

Davin Allen, Managing Director – Americas of Xcalibur Smart Mapping, noted, “The Air Tractor is the ideal aircraft for geophysical survey given its powerful turbine engine enabling better terrain following. The aircraft also has superior situational awareness with a ‘heads up’ display mounted outside the cockpit and superior safety features such as a built-in safety cage around the cockpit and airbags incorporated into the 5-point restraint harness.” 

Securing the modified aircraft approvals was a significant milestone, as this Air Tractor will now be able to develop projects anywhere in the world, facilitating the detection of critical minerals necessary for the energy transition. The complexities involved were enormous, but the benefits for both the industry and the environment are substantial. 

Xcalibur Smart Mapping’s clients include the USGS as well as major and junior mining clients in Canada exploring for critical minerals. By improving the efficiency of aerial surveys, the company is taking a significant step towards a more sustainable future. This innovation not only supports the detection of critical minerals but also contributes to the broader goal of environmental conservation and efficient resource management. 

Committed to responsible and sustainable resource development practices, Xcalibur Smart Mapping ensures that its geophysical surveys minimize environmental impact while maximizing data quality, ensuring that critical mineral exploration is conducted with utmost care for surrounding ecosystems.  

The expansion of Xcalibur Smart Mapping’s North American operations and the deployment of Air Tractor aircraft represent a significant milestone in the company’s mission to unlock natural capital responsibly and accelerate the global transition to a sustainable energy economy. 

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African Gifted Foundation, Xcalibur Smart Mapping and Xcalibur Foundation together to promote female leadership in STEM in Africa

The pilot project is scheduled to run for one year, with the option for renewal

• Xcalibur Smart Mapping and Xcalibur Foundation kick off their first project in the female STEM field alongside African Gifted Foundation this Wednesday 14th of February.

• The primary objective of the HERoSTEM project is to contribute to the development of future female leaders in STEM through tailored mentorship and informational sessions for African Science Academy (ASA) students in Ghana, facilitating their integration into the professional world.

• The pilot project will initially last for one year, with the understanding that the programme will continue if the results are satisfactory.

• Xcalibur Smart Mapping contributes by offering mentorship and speaking sessions conducted by its employees to ASA alumni and current students of the institution starting. African Gifted Foundation (AGF), Xcalibur Smart Mapping (XSM), and Xcalibur Foundation (XF) are launching the HERoSTEM project on February 14th, aimed at promoting female leadership in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in Africa.

The objective of this collaboration is to contribute to the development of female leaders in STEM through mentorship for students and alumni of the African Science Academy (ASA) in Ghana and guest speaking sessions tailored to their academic training, thus facilitating their integration into the professional world.

The pilot project is scheduled to run for one year, with the option for renewal. In its first stage, ASA students and alumni, selected for their high performance in various STEM areas, will receive profesional guidance from experts in different fields, including the most common technical profiles in XSM, such as geologists, geophysicists, etc.

Xcalibur Smart Mapping volunteers will be responsible for this mentoring programme providing support and necessary tools for the personal and professional development of ASA students and alumni. Additionally, the students will benefit from speaking sessions held by XSM professionals from different areas of expertise.

Following the agreement signing, Laura Blanco, XSM’s ESG Director, emphasized the project’s significance as a major step in Xcalibur’s CSR strategy, aligned with the Group’s global ESG agenda.

This initiative aims to promote gender equality and empower women by fostering their involvement and leadership in pivotal STEM domains. ‘We have great experts in our team in GIS, geophysics etc and we are excited about how our team has embraced this intercultural synergy’ added the ESG Director.

Xcalibur Foundation, will play a coordinating role between Xcalibur Smart Mapping and African Gifted Foundation, ensuring project management methodology, goal definition, project planning, monitoring, and impact measurement.

María José Toro, President of XF, emphasized the significance of the HERoSTEM programme in promoting gender equality in Africa. ‘Our main mission is to enhance the emotional and physical well-being of vulnerable communities through continuous education.

We are immensely proud to take a step further by fostering the training and development of women in the STEM field. The girls participating in this programme will represent the future of science on the African continent’.

African Gifted Foundation will be responsible for defining areas of collaboration between XSM and XF and informing them about the training curriculum and the schedule of defined activities. Yasameen Al-jboury, Executive Director of AGF, commented ‘We are excited to partner with Xcalibur Smart Mapping and Xcalibur Foundation on this transformative project.

The HERoSTEM initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to unlock the potential of Africa’s young women, empowering them to become leaders who will shape the future of STEM on the continent. Together, we will advance gender equality in STEM fields, inspiring a new generation of female scientists, technologists, engineers, and mathematicians’.

In conclusion, HERoSTEM project is an educational initiative and a movement towards creating a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous future for all.

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Xcalibur Multiphysics completes the acquisition of MPX Geophysics, strengthening its presence in America

Xcalibur Multiphysics, global leader in integrated project and solutions for airborne geophysics and applied technology, is pleased to announce the successful acquisition of MPX Geophysics, a Canadian-based company with a presence in Latin America

This acquisition represents a significant step in Xcalibur Multiphysics’ growth strategy in America and reflects its commitment to growth by offering state-of-the-art geophysical solutions in the region.

The purchase includes the comprehensive acquisition of 100% of the shares and geophysical services of MPX Geophysics. We are proud to welcome MPX Geophysics to the Xcalibur Multiphysics family,” said Xcalibur Multiphysics CEO Andres Blanco, “This acquisition is a key milestone in our journey to consolidate Xcalibur Multiphysics’s leadership internationally and particularly in America”.

Daniel McKinnon, president and owner of MPX, said: “from our perspective, this acquisition transaction affords the former MPX team a tremendous opportunity to be part of a progressive organization providing access to a wider variety of geophysical surveying technologies that will enhance our capacity to provide effective exploration solutions to clients.

Through this acquisition, Xcalibur Multiphysics will strengthen its team in Latin America with the integration of the MPX Geophysics management team into Xcalibur Multiphysics. Marco Nieto, formerly Vice-president at MPX, will join as Business Development Manager where he will utilize his extensive experience and knowledge obtained over years of working in South America.

The expectation is that there will be a smooth and seamless transition into Xcalibur Multiphysics for the remaining MPX team members, without any overlap of key positions, including Business Development, Senior Geophysicists, Project Managers and Engineers. We look forward with keen anticipation to contributing meaningfully to Xcalibur Multiphysics’s thrust to become a World leader in Geophysics”.

As for Davin Allen, CEO of Xcalibur Multiphysics in Canada, he said: we see this acquisition as a pivotal step in expanding our presence in Central and South America. Daniel has done an exceptional job in building a fantastic team with a high degree of experience and an especially in-depth understanding of the intricacies of geophysical survey operations in the region.

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Xcalibur Multiphysics shines at Ecosistema Ahora

Xcalibur Multiphysics shines at Ecosistema Ahora

Xcalibur Multiphysics, made its mark at the recent event Ecosistema Ahora, organized by Grupo PRISA and presented by El País, held in Madrid

This groundbreaking event brought together visionary leaders, experts, and influencers from various sectors to address the pressing environmental challenges confronting both Spain and the world amid the ongoing climate emergency.

Victor Gonzalez, CEO of Xcalibur Multiphysics Spain, Inspires with Visionary Insights a pivotal moment of the day came when Victor Gonzalez, CEO of Xcalibur Multiphysics Spain, took the stage to present his visionary perspective on the future of natural resources. With profound, Gonzalez enlightened the audience on how the demand for these resources will significantly impact our daily lives. His engaging discourse shed light on the importance of sustainable practices and the urgent need for technological advancements.

The event provided an exceptional opportunity for Xcalibur Multiphysics to engage in a dialogue on the environmental future with Ricardo de Querol Alcaraz, esteemed deputy editor of El País. The enlightening conversation touched upon various critical topics such as natural capital mapping, the energy transition, and the overall impact of climate change on our planet. The exchange of ideas between Gonzalez and de Querol left a lasting impression on all attendees, fostering a shared commitment to combatting climate change and ensuring a sustainable future.

Uniting Diverse Perspectives for Climate Action Throughout the day, Xcalibur Multiphysics had the privilege of sharing the stage with an-array of influential figures, including business leaders, government representatives, and experts, all of whom demonstrated their unwavering dedication to addressing climate change. By bringing together these diverse profiles, the event became a powerful catalyst for fostering collaboration and joint efforts towards a more sustainable world. As a company dedicated to creating a positive impact in the future, Xcalibur Multiphysics leverages cutting-edge technology and a strong commitment to sustainability. With a clear vision and a focus on transformative solutions, Xcalibur Multiphysics aims to shape a better tomorrow for generations to come.

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Xcalibur Multiphysics partners with AFC and SMDF to boost Nigeria’s Geological Data Capabilities

Colombia

The objective is to stablish a comprehensive database showcasing Nigeria’s resource potential

Xcalibur Multiphysics role includes providing technical support, ensuring data quality and conducting economic evaluation studies Xcalibur Multiphysics, global leader in integrated project and solutions for airborne geophysics and applied technology, has joined forces to enhance the landscape of geospatial edata mapping for early-stage mining projects in Nigeria with Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and the Solid Minerals Development Fund of Nigeria (SMDF).

The primary focus is to enhance global access to Nigeria’s geological data, promoting secure investments from various entities, including banks, mining firms, financial institutions, individuals, and agencies. At the forefront of this initiative is Xcalibur Multiphysics, contributing technical support, ensuring data quality, and conducting economic evaluation studies.

The collaboration is an extension of the AFC and Xcalibur Multiphysics’s earlier agreement to map, develop, and co-finance natural resource projects in Africa. This specific project in Nigeria aims to establish a comprehensive database showcasing the country’s resource potential.

The AFC and SMDF will navigate financing solutions, engage with regulators, and facilitate government discussions, while Xcalibur plays a crucial role in overseeing the technical aspects and economic evaluations.

Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO of AFC, emphasizes the significance of the partnership, highlighting Nigeria’s vast but underexplored mineral wealth. The goal is to attract mining investments and position Nigeria as a key player in the global energy transition. Dario Castellanos, VP Financing and Middle East director of Xcalibur Multiphysics, echoed her words, affirming the company’s commitment to enhancing geophysical data in Nigeria.

Castellanos believes that the collaboration will attract mining investments, contributing to the development of critical mineral resources and establishing Nigeria as a pivotal player in the global energy transition.

Despite Africa hosting 30% of the world’s mineral reserves, only 5% of global mining financing reaches the continent. AFC has been a significant investor, deploying over $900 million in critical projects over the last seven years, with a focus on closing the financing gap in the mining sector. Examples include the Dynamic Mining Bauxite Mine in Guinea and the FG Gold Baomahun Gold Project in Sierra Leone, both expected to have transformative impacts on local economies and job creation.

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Xcalibur Multiphysics Group acquisition of a majority participation in the Indian company McPhar International Private Limited

Xcalibur Multiphysics Group acquisition of a majority participation in the Indian company McPhar International Private Limited

Xcalibur is pleased to announce the acquisition of a majority participation in McPhar

This acquisition represents Xcalibur’s entry into a strategic high growth potential market together with Oil Filed Instrumentation (India) Private Limited, a local partner, belonging to the industrial conglomerate The Neterwala Group.

Madrid, October 22nd, 2022. McPhar has headquarters in Mumbai (India). Today it is considered as a reference in the airborne geophysics survey market in India. McPhar is a leading service provider to the major geological agencies, as well as groundwater and geothermal public and private entities.

The company currently employs more than 20 highly qualified professionals and their state-of-the-art equipments and systems will allow them to execute current contracts in hand. Xcalibur, with 13 offices located in 5 continents, focuses on mapping of natural resources including minerals, oil & gas, water, and energy sources (geothermal and hydrogen). With proprietary geophysical technologies the company also has its own fleet of aircrafts, and a large team of expert professionals. This Spanish company flies over territories to measure physical properties of the subsoil.

The data is then processed, interpreted, and converted into valuable information on potential areas of natural resources for private companies, governments, and geological services. With active projects in Colombia, Brazil, Canada, USA, Spain, Portugal, Finland, Australia, Saudi Arabia, India, Japan, Kazakhstan, Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo, Republic of the Congo, Angola, South Africa, Tanzania, Botswana and Uganda, the Group’s purpose is to accelerate the energy transition, helping its clients to make more efficient and sustainable decisions to discover their growth potential.

Xcalibur also aims to contribute to the circular economy, the local communities, and the protection of biodiversity, focusing solely on high-interest areas of natural resources and developing social and cooperation projects in those regions through Xcalibur Foundation, the Group’s social arm. Xcalibur will introduce a wide range of technologies, technical know-how, commercial capabilities to the Indian market besides offering a large fleet of its own aircraft. Xcalibur-McPhar will jointly pursue opportunities in a potential market of about 2BnUSD over the next 10 years, investing together in the latest technology and systems and also with the aim to establish a permanent local fleet of aircrafts. Xcalibur counts on the support of COFIDES, Spanish institution that provides financing for international expansion of Spanish companies.

Neterwala Group Statement
Anosh Neterwala, Vice Chairman of the Neterwala Group, stated: This partnership adds tremendous capacity which will enable the group to offer a wide range of latest technologies and expertise for exploration of natural resources. We will utilize our India specific domain expertise of geophysical/geological exploration to help expand the business.

Xcalibur Multiphysics Statement
Andrés Blanco, CEO of Xcalibur Multiphysics Group, stated: This acquisition will allow Xcalibur to take a leading position in India, a strategic market with great growth potential in the search for natural resources and energy transition. Xcalibur will contribute its global leadership by making available all its assets and technologies to the combined company in order to offer a full range of services for natural resource mapping in India.

About Neterwala Group / Oil Field Instrumentation (India) Private Limited (OFI) The Neterwala Group is a professionally run; family owned & managed business enterprise with over six decades of steadfast growth. The group is technologically robust, with diverse manufacturing interests in Metallurgy, Oil Field Chemicals & Instrumentation, Engineering, Environment, and Information Technology. Continuous innovation, sustained by dedicated commitment of its employees, coupled with careful use of acquired technologies and International Joint Venture partnerships, has ensured that the group is a leader in almost all its fields of activity. The Neterwala Group’s CSR program is built around its value system and relies on the commitment of its stakeholders to adopt these values.

The Group is committed to advancing policies and systems across its companies to ensure that all aspects of its CSR program relevant to its businesses are addressed and monitored. These include good ethical behavior, concern for employee health and safety, care for the environment and community involvement. OFI is a leading, specialized high technology-oriented service company in India, engaged in providing advanced and cost-effective solutions to the Oil & Gas Industry (Offshore and Onshore) for over three decades. It is a leading Mud Logging Service provider in India with presence in the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific. OFI has a wide range of propriety digital offerings and a strong focus on future opportunities in energy transition.

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