The Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources continues its efforts to boost domestic natural gas production in the Sakarya Gas Field while also seeking new reserves in the Black Sea. A significant step has been taken with the deployment of the Abdülhamid Han Drillship, renowned for its 2023 discovery of 75 billion cubic meters of natural gas at the Göktepe-3 well.
Technical Capabilities of Abdülhamid Han
Commissioned into the Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) energy fleet in 2022, the Abdülhamid Han is a 7th-generation ultra-deepwater drillship. It is equipped to operate at water depths up to 3,650 meters and can drill to a maximum depth of 12,120 meters. Measuring 238 meters in length and 42 meters in width, the vessel stands out with its advanced technology and equipment.
New Drilling Mission at Kandıra-2
This morning, the Abdülhamid Han commenced hydrocarbon exploration at the Kandıra-2 well, located off the coast of Kocaeli. The vessel is scheduled to drill to approximately 3,100 meters, including water depth, with the operation expected to last around 35 days.
Statements from the Minister
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar commented, “We are taking another important step to crown our success at the Sakarya Gas Field with new discoveries. Following last year’s significant find at Göktepe-3, the Abdülhamid Han is now embarking on a new exploration mission at Kandıra-2.”
Upcoming Drilling with Fatih Drillship
Minister Bayraktar noted that activities will not be limited to Kandıra-2. In April, the Fatih Drillship will begin drilling at the Eflani-1 well, located north of Bartın.
Goal: Full Energy Independence
Minister Bayraktar emphasized, “With our own ships, engineers, and the support of our nation, we are working tirelessly for new discoveries. Our clear objective is a fully independent Turkey in energy.”
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