Rio Tinto’s share of $307 million will be used to develop Deposits C and D at the
West Angelas operation (above).

The joint venture partners will invest $967 million, with Rio Tinto’s share of $513 million, to develop the Mesa B, C and H deposits at Robe Valley, and $579 million, with Rio Tinto’s share of $307 million, in developing Deposits C and D at the existing West Angelas operation. These investments enable Rio Tinto to sustain production of the Pilbara Blend and its Robe Valley lump and fines products, which are highly valued by long-term customers.

Subject to government and environmental approvals, construction of both projects is expected to start next year with an estimated 1,200 jobs created during this phase. First ore is currently anticipated from 2021.

Once operational, both projects will feature the latest technology with 34 existing haul trucks to be retrofitted with Autonomous Haulage System (AHS) technology, delivering safety and productivity gains to the business. “The development at West Angelas will help sustain production of the Pilbara Blend, the industry’s benchmark premium iron ore product, while the additional Robe Valley deposits will enable us to continue to provide a highly valued product to our longterm customers across Asia,” said Rio Tinto Iron Ore Chief Executive Chris Salisbury.

Rio Tinto’s funding commitment for both projects of $820 million forms part of the company’s existing replacement capital guidance of around $2.7 billion from 2018 to 2020. Rio Tinto owns a 53% holding in the Robe River Joint Venture, Mitsui owns 33% and Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corp., 14%.