** Morgan Stanley analysts back the move by miner Rio Tinto RIO.AX to invest $1.8 billion in developing the Brockman Syncline 1 mine project, extending the life of the Brockman Hub, and part of RIO's replacement projects
** RIO on Thursday said first ore is scheduled from 2027 as opposed to previously expected 2028
** Shares in RIO gain near 1% to A$115.99
** Brokerage says early ore delivery is a positive outcome given Brockman Syncline 1 is a key replacement project
** Australia's mining sub-index .AXMM down 0.6%
** Stock down 2.2% YTD
(Reporting by Rishav Chatterjee in Bengaluru)
((Rishav.Chatterjee@thomsonreuters.com))