“Full Compliance” signifies that the application meets the core requirements of the Act and its regulations, thereby preserving the Company’s “priority rights” over the requested seabed exploration areas.
DSRM has requested exploration rights covering approximately 150,000 square kilometers of seabed area located in the Central Pacific Ocean’s Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), as well as areas in the Western Pacific Ocean near the island of Guam.
Tony Romeo, DSRM’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer and a former U.S. Air Force Intelligence Officer, stated: “Obtaining full-compliance status with our NOAA application is a meaningful milestone for our Company. This milestone continues our priority of right in NOAA’s application process for our requested exploration area and allows us to continue planning for a 2026 exploration survey and sampling program, as well as longer-term evaluation work relating to future resource estimates, reports, and feasibility studies. Our momentum in the polymetallic mineral exploration space continues to build. These efforts align with the US government’s recent focus on offshore critical minerals, including the April 24, 2025, Executive Order, Unleashing America’s Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources. We remain committed to contributing to the responsible development of critical mineral supply chains that support America’s economic and national security.”
As a result of NOAA’s determination of full compliance, the Company’s application has advanced to the certification stage of the review process. Pursuant to NOAA’s regulations, the agency will endeavor to complete certification within approximately 100 days following a determination of full compliance.
After certification, NOAA may proceed with a proposal to issue the exploration license, including Federal Register notice, at least a 60-day public comment period, and required public hearing procedures. Any exploration license would be issued only after NOAA completes those remaining procedural steps and makes the required determinations about Deep Sea Rare Minerals, Inc.
Deep Sea Rare Minerals, Inc. (DSRM) is a US-based company dedicated to the responsible development of subsea mineral resources, subject to applicable licenses, permits, approvals, and other authorizations. The Company’s mission is to support the secure supply of critical minerals essential to modern industry, renewable-energy technologies, and national defense.