The Noble Globetrotter I drillship has arrived on location to drill the Vinekh-1 exploration well for OMV Petrom in Bulgaria's Han Asparuh block. This is the first of two planned wells, with a second probe targeting the Krum prospect to follow.

Prospect Details and Resource Potential

The Vinekh-1 well is targeting a deepwater prospect with an estimated 3.5 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) of potential in-place gas resource. The subsequent Krum prospect is larger, with estimated in-place resources of 5.7 Tcf.

Strategic Location

The drilling location is strategically positioned near significant existing and developing gas fields. It is approximately 60 kilometers south-southeast of OMV Petrom's Domino field (part of the Neptun Deep project) and about 60 kilometers northwest of Turkey's massive Sakarya gas field.

Proximity to Turkish Appraisal Activity

Notably, the site lies roughly 72 kilometers north-northeast of the Goktepe gas discovery in Turkish waters. Three Turkish drillships are currently conducting appraisal drilling there. Satellite data indicates gas flowed to the surface from the Goktepe-1 well on 19 December.

Partnership Structure

OMV Petrom holds a 50% operating stake in the Han Asparuh block, with partner NewMed Energy holding the remaining 50% interest.