Mr. Clive Massey reports

KIRKSTONE METALS INITIATES PERMITTING PROCESS ON GORILLA LAKE URANIUM PROJECT

Kirkstone Metals Corp. has commenced the permitting process for its upcoming, multiphase exploration program within the company's Gorilla Lake project area.

The proposed exploration program is designed to systematically advance the project through a combination of airborne and ground-based exploration techniques, followed by targeted drilling. The first phase of the multiphase program calls for a comprehensive time domain electromagnetic (EM) and magnetic airborne survey aimed at confirming historic structural interpretations and identifying subsurface conductive targets. The second phase consists of ground-based follow-up, including detailed prospecting and robust ground geophysical surveys to further refine priority targets. In the third phase, the company intends to permit up to 7,000 metres of diamond drilling on qualified targets identified through earlier phases of work.

As part of the permitting process, Kirkstone will engage with indigenous stakeholders within the project area to ensure open communication, early dialogue, and the incorporation of local knowledge into the planning and execution of the exploration program.

"Our approach is to advance the project in a thoughtful, phased manner that balances technical rigor with responsible exploration practices," said Clive Massey, president of Kirkstone Metals. "Initiating the permitting process is an important step forward, and it allows us to work collaboratively with regulators, indigenous communities and other stakeholders as we plan our next stages of exploration." He further commented, "With uranium trading recently over $98.00 this is a very exciting time."

Kirkstone is committed to maintaining high environmental standards throughout all stages of exploration. The company will work closely with local nations, land users, and regulatory authorities to minimize environmental impact and to ensure that exploration activities are conducted in a safe, respectful and responsible manner. Environmental stewardship and community engagement are integral components of Kirkstone's exploration philosophy.

The company will provide further updates as the permitting process advances and as exploration plans are refined.

Cancellation of stock options previously announced: The company has cancelled all 1.2 million stock options granted earlier this month (see news releases issued on Jan. 13, 2026, and Jan. 16, 2025).

About Kirkstone Metals Corp.

Kirkstone Metals is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on uranium assets that support the global transition to reliable, clean energy. The company's flagship project, the Key Lake Road uranium project, is located within Saskatchewan's prolific Athabasca basin -- one of the world's premier uranium districts. Kirkstone is committed to responsible exploration, detailed technical work and value creation for shareholders through disciplined capital allocation and market engagement.

Qualified person

The technical information in this release has been reviewed and approved by Tim Henneberry, PGeo, a qualified person as defined under National Instrument 43-101 -- Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, who is a consultant to the company.

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