Egypt launches major OBN seismic survey projects in Suez Gulf and Mediterranean

Egypt’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Karim Badawi, has overseen the launch of large-scale seismic survey projects using advanced Ocean Bottom Node (OBN) technology to boost oil and gas exploration.

In the Suez Gulf, a contract was signed between Gulf of Suez Petroleum Company (GUPCO) and SLB to conduct a survey covering 1,035 square kilometers in the central and southern concession areas. This project, supported by investment partner Dragon Oil, aims to increase local production and reduce exploration risks. The minister noted that previous applications of OBN technology in the region helped increase exploratory well success rates from 26% to 80%.

Simultaneously, a major marine seismic survey project is set to begin in the Eastern Mediterranean on October 30. Executed by the Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company (EGAS) in collaboration with a consortium of SLB and Viridien, the project will utilize the vessel ‘Commander’ to provide high-precision geological data. This initiative aims to identify promising natural gas structures and encourage international investment in Egypt’s energy sector.