• Xcalibur Aviation (Australia) Pty Ltd will map more than 40,000 linear kilometres across the Low Southern Belt and the Thimphu-Paro region in the Kingdom of Bhutan.
• The results from the project will produce “Bhutan Natural Resource Prospectivity” maps created from newly acquired and already existing data.
• Xcalibur’s innovative mapping technology, data interpretation, and local training modules will revolutionise mapping and exploration in Bhutan.

Xcalibur Smart Mapping, the world’s leading geophysical exploration company, will team up with the Bhutan Department of Geology and Mines (DGM) to revolutionise geophysical data acquisition in the region. The project will involve two helicopter platforms to map more than 40,000 linear kilometres using Xcalibur’s innovative mapping and sensor technology.

The airborne survey will also be supported by detailed geophysical interpretation, training from Xcalibur Smart Mapping,  and separate field geological mapping, geochemistry, geochronology, resource prospectivity surveys conducted by the Bhutan DGM.

This integrated mapping program will produce geological and “Natural Resource Prospectivity” maps at 1:50,000 regional scale. The agreement marks Xcalibur Smart Mapping’s first survey in Bhutan, a country renowned for its rugged terrain topography and vast vegetation. Active tectonics, a fragile geological environment, steep topography and the effects of climate change make Bhutan highly vulnerable to geological hazards such as landslides and earthquakes. In this context, the acquired data can also be used to support valuable hazard mapping improvements and solutions.

Crucially, the agreement will also cover the development of training programs to enhance local expertise in mapping and geophysical exploration. As Xcalibur Smart Mapping continues to pioneer advancements in geophysical exploration, this collaboration underscores its commitment to reshaping the future of sustainable exploration, mining and resource discovery.

We have been awarded in the Resources and Energy category at this year’s Australian Export Awards and very grateful especially in a record-breaking year with 105 entries from 48 different companies.

This recognition highlights the vital role Xcalibur Smart Mapping plays in supporting countries through airborne exploration for data-driven decisions for the energy transition, which is essential for sustainable national development.

At Xcalibur Smart Mapping, we provide cutting-edge Airborne geophysical data acquisition technologies that enable countries and industries to make informed decisions about their energy future. Our technology allows us to gather critical data from vast areas, which is then analyzed and managed to provide clear insights for optimizing resource use and planning energy strategies.

In a world that is rapidly transitioning towards renewable energy, making decisions based on high-quality data is essential. Our airborne data acquisition, followed by rigorous analysis, ensures that governments, energy providers, and industries have access to the information they need to effectively manage resources and plan for sustainable energy solutions. This award acknowledges the importance of the work we do in enabling this crucial transition.

A Milestone in a Record Year

Receiving this recognition in a year with the highest number of applications in the history of the Australian Export Awards makes this achievement particularly significant. As global demand for sustainable energy solutions continues to grow, Xcalibur’s ability to provide actionable insights through advanced data acquisition and analysis is more crucial than ever.

Our airborne technologies** not only help identify critical minerals essential for renewable energy technologies like electric vehicle batteries and solar panels, but they also assist in efficiently managing resources, contributing to more sustainable development. This award reflects the essential role we play in this global challenge, and we are thankful for the recognition.

Next Stop: National Title and Exporter of the Year

As we celebrate this achievement, we are looking ahead to the next step in our journey. Our next stop is the Western Australian Export Awards 2024 Gala Dinner and then onto Canberra this November, where we will compete for the National Title in our category as well as the prestigious Australian Exporter of the Year Award.

At Xcalibur Smart Mapping, with a strong ESG commitment, we contribute to the global transition towards more sustainable energy solutions. Our technology supports countries in their efforts to manage resources more effectively, paving the way for a cleaner, data-driven future. This award reaffirms the importance of our work and the key role that airborne data acquisition, analysis, and management, plays in ensuring successful energy transitions.

We believe that the future of energy is deeply rooted in innovation and strategic, data-driven planning. By equipping countries and businesses with the insights they need to make informed decisions, we are helping them take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable future.

Once again, we are grateful for the recognition from the Australian Export Awards, and we look forward to continuing our journey of innovation, sustainability, and global impact.

Xcalibur Smart Mapping specializes in advanced surface and sub-surface mapping technologies that enable rapid, reliable, and remote detection of hydrogen-forming geological formations. Their expertise is instrumental in identifying and quantifying subsurface hydrogen source rocks, a critical step in transforming natural hydrogen into a viable energy resource.

“This collaboration with Koloma marks a significant step forward in our mission to bring cutting-edge technologies that facilitate exploration for ground-breaking low-carbon resources to the market,” said Davin Allen, Managing Director of Xcalibur Smart Mapping Americas. “By combining our technologies and expertise with Koloma’s innovative technology and exploration advantages, this partnership is well-positioned to drive the global expansion of natural hydrogen and make a substantial impact on the future of clean energy.”

Natural hydrogen holds immense promise as a zero-carbon fuel, essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and diversifying the global energy mix. This collaboration not only underscores the importance of strategic partnerships in addressing the world’s energy challenges but also sets the stage for global expansion in the natural hydrogen sector.

“The combined strengths of this partnership that integrates innovative technologies and exploration expertise will catalyze groundbreaking advancements in the global discovery and development of natural hydrogen, potentially redefining the future of clean energy,” said Dr. Tom Darrah, Koloma’s Chief Technology Officer.

By leveraging their combined expertise in technology, data, and exploration, Xcalibur Smart Mapping and Koloma are paving the way toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future—benefiting economies and the environment alike.

The operation has utilised two Cessna Caravan aircraft, each equipped with cutting-edge geophysical sensors. These specialised aircraft have flown meticulously over designated areas, gathering comprehensive subsurface geological data. This will contribute essential insights for future resource evaluations and exploration initiatives.

“Our survey in the Central Massif is a significant undertaking, where we’ve applied cutting-edge airborne geophysical technology to provide a detailed understanding of the subsurface,” said Víctor González, VP and Managing Director for Europe & North Africa at Xcalibur Smart Mapping. “By meticulously covering over 66,000 kilometers (30.000 km²), we are not only delivering vital data that will inform resource exploration but also ensuring that this knowledge supports sustainable management practices, aligned with both local and national priorities for resource conservation and environmental stewardship.”

Following the survey’s conclusion, Xcalibur is focused on the thorough processing and analysis of the acquired data. This ensures that the project aligns with the technical requirements of the stakeholders, delivering on both objectives and timelines.

Xcalibur Smart Mapping is the global leader in airborne and mapping geophysics industry, providing comprehensive and sustainable solutions for mapping and assessing natural capital, renewable and non-renewable resources with +100 years of accumulated experience.

With over 1.400 executed projects and an astonishing total of more than 50 million linear kilometers flown, we have become global leaders across six continents. Our worldwide presence is underpinned by a fleet of more than 40 specialized aircraft owned by the group, all equipped with state-of-the-art geophysical systems. Our workforce, consisting of over 400 highly qualified employees, serves as the driving force behind our continuous innovation and industry success.

To learn more, visit www.xcaliburmp.com