Mr. Graydon Kowal reports

GUARDIAN EXPLORATION SECURES DEDICATED HYDRACORE HC5000 DRILL CAPACITY FOR 2026 YUKON AND NUNAVUT EXPLORATION PROGRAMS

Guardian Exploration Inc. has secured access to a new Hydracore HC5000 diamond drill and related support equipment for its planned 2026 exploration programs in Yukon and Nunavut.

Key highlights

• Secured dedicated access to a Hydracore HC5000 helicopter-portable diamond core drill for the 2026 exploration season;

• Drill to be initially deployed at Guardian's fully permitted Mount Cameron silver-zinc-lead project in Yukon.

Following completion of the Yukon program, the HC5000 is expected to be utilized at the Sun Dog project in Nunavut, subject to receipt of required permits and approvals.

Dedicated drill capacity provides increased operational flexibility, improved scheduling certainty and enhanced cost control across multiple exploration programs.

Compact, helicopter-portable design is well suited for remote exploration projects in Northern Canada.

Commercial arrangement reviewed and approved by Guardian's independent directors and determined to be in the best interests of the company and its shareholders.

The HC5000 is a versatile, helicopter-portable diamond core drill designed for remote mineral exploration projects. The drill is capable of completing deep exploration holes while maintaining a compact footprint, making it particularly well suited for Guardian's projects located in northern Canada where access and logistics are critical considerations.

Securing dedicated drill capacity is expected to provide Guardian with increased operational flexibility, improved scheduling certainty and enhanced cost control across multiple exploration programs. The company believes this arrangement will support the advancement of its growing portfolio of exploration assets while reducing reliance on third-party contractor availability during peak exploration seasons.

Graydon Kowal, president and chief executive officer of Guardian Exploration, commented: "Securing dedicated drill capacity is an important milestone as we prepare for our 2026 exploration season. Access to the Hydracore HC5000 provides Guardian with greater flexibility in scheduling and mobilization while supporting the efficient execution of our exploration programs. We are particularly excited to advance our fully permitted Mount Cameron project in Yukon and continue building momentum across our northern exploration portfolio."

The company intends to initially deploy the HC5000 drill at its fully permitted Mount Cameron silver-zinc-lead project in Yukon, where Guardian received a Class 3 exploration permit from the Yukon government, as announced on May 4, 2026.

Engagement with Na-Cho Nyak Dun First Nation

The Mount Cameron property is located within the traditional territory of the Na-Cho Nyak Dun First Nation (NCND). Guardian recognizes the importance of maintaining a respectful and collaborative relationship with NCND as exploration activities advance.

The company is committed to engagement and communication with NCND regarding planned exploration programs and project development activities. Guardian intends to work collaboratively with NCND to support responsible mineral exploration, including consideration of local employment, contracting and training opportunities where appropriate, protection of cultural heritage resources, respect for traditional land use and adherence to environmental stewardship best practices.

Guardian looks forward to continuing constructive dialogue with NCND and exploring opportunities to create long-term benefits for local communities while advancing the Mount Cameron project in a responsible and sustainable manner.

Related party disclosure

The HC5000 drill and certain support equipment referenced in this release are owned by a private equipment company controlled by Graydon Kowal, the company's president and chief executive officer. The equipment company acquired the HC5000 drill from Hydracore Drills Ltd. and has made the drill available for Guardian's planned 2026 exploration programs. Guardian has entered into a commercial arrangement for the use of the drill and related equipment during the 2026 exploration season. The company's independent directors reviewed and approved the arrangement and determined that the terms are reasonable and in the best interests of Guardian and its shareholders.

About the Mount Cameron project

The Mount Cameron project is a silver-zinc-lead exploration property located in central Yukon. The project hosts multiple prospective targets and benefits from established access and infrastructure relative to many northern exploration projects. Guardian believes the property possesses significant exploration potential and represents a key component of the company's 2026 exploration strategy.

About Guardian Exploration Inc.

Guardian Exploration is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition and development of highly prospective exploration assets in mining-friendly jurisdictions. The company's portfolio includes projects prospective for gold, silver, copper, zinc and critical minerals located in Yukon, Nunavut and Alaska.

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