Türkiye’s Abdulhamid Han reaches Filyos, ready for Sakarya gas field exploration
An aerial view of Abdulhamid Han Drilling Ship passing through the Bosphorus for its new mission in the Black Sea in Istanbul, Türkiye on August 02, 2024. (AA Photo)
Türkiye’s energy ambitions are taking a monumental leap forward with the deployment of the Abdulhamid Han drilling ship to the Black Sea.
As a cornerstone of Türkiye’s energy exploration fleet, this state-of-the-art vessel is set to bolster the nation’s domestic energy production and further its pursuit of energy independence.
Why it matters: The drilling ship measures 238 meters (780.8 feet) in length and 42 meters in width, making it one of the most advanced vessels in Türkiye’s energy exploration fleet.
The ship embarks on a 20-year mission to the Sakarya Gas Field in the Black Sea.
Recent activity:
- Previously operated in the Mediterranean, completing three deep-sea drills.
- Recently transited the Istanbul Strait to reach the Black Sea.
Energy ambitions
Energy Minister Bayraktar emphasized the significance of this operation in boosting Türkiye’s energy independence and reducing reliance on imports.
- Sakarya Gas Field: Türkiye’s largest natural gas discovery, aiming to increase production to 10 million cubic meters daily by 2025.
- Daily output: Currently provides 5.5 million cubic meters, meeting the needs of 2.4 million homes.
What’s next
- A new floating production ship en route is expected to enhance output by 2026.
- Additional drilling ships, including Fatih, Yavuz, and Kanuni, support exploration efforts.
