Preliminary results are encouraging.

BW Energy has reached total depth on the Kharas-1 appraisal well and drilled multiple formations present across the Kudu license

Strategically designed to intersect several targets within a single borehole, the well revealed valuable geological data across the broader petroleum system. The approach, however, did not allow for individual optimisation of each formation. 

Preliminary results are encouraging as several intervals show indications of hydrocarbon presence and reservoir potential, suggesting a working petroleum system at Kharas. Early analysis indicates that the K1 interval may contain hydrocarbons wetter than dry gas. A hydrocarbon migration front has been observed, and wireline operations are underway to assess reservoir quality, fluid type, and pressure characteristics.

A follow-up appraisal campaign will be required to evaluate the individual targets in greater detail. The outcome of the wireline programme will guide decisions on the next well location and the future appraisal strategy.

The concession includes the North Rafah offshore block. (Image source: QatarEnergy)

The government of Egypt has approved for Qatar Energy a 40% stake in an offshore concession where Eni is the operator with 60% interest

The concession is applicable for the North Rafah offshore block located in the Mediterranean Sea, off the northeastern coast of Egypt. It spans nearly 3,000 sq km in water depths of up to 450 meters.

“We are pleased with our new position in the North Rafah offshore block, which further strengthens our presence in Egypt and marks another important step in advancing our ambitious international exploration strategy,” said Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, and president and CEO of QatarEnergy.

“We extend our thanks to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Mineral Resources in Egypt, and our partner Eni for their valued support and cooperation. We look forward to working together to achieve our exploration objectives,” he added. 

The Volans-1X exploration well is part of PEL85.

The Volans-1X exploration well in Namibia’s Orange Basin has recorded excellent petrophysical properties and no observed water contact

The well is part of the Petroleum Exploration License 85 (PEL85), which is operated by Rhino Resources with a working interest of 42.5%. Co-venturers are Azule Energy (42.5%), NAMCOR (10%), and Korres Investments (5%).

The Northern Ocean's semi-submersible Deepsea Mira was deployed to drill the well, reaching a total depth of 4,497.5m TVDSS (true vertical depth subsea). It penetrated the Upper Cretaceous target, and encountered 26m of net pay in rich gas condensate-bearing reservoirs. While the results continue to be evaluated, initial laboratory analysis of two samples indicated a high condensate-to-gas ratio (CGR) of >140 bbl/mmscf with liquid density of approximately 40° API gravity. 

The Volans-1X well marks the third significant hydrocarbon discovery in 2025 for Azule Energy partners, following the Capricornus-1X light oil find in Namibia and the Gajajeira-01 gas discovery in Angola. 

The contracts amount to nearly US$135mn in total.

A significant demand boost in West Africa and other regions reflected in Saipem's latest wins as the company announced new offshore drilling contracts amounting to nearly US$135mn in total 

Eni Ghana Exploration & Production Limited and Eni Côte d’Ivoire Limited have booked the Santorini, a seventh-generation drillship, for extended operations in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire respectively, ahead of the next drilling campaign in the Mediterranean Sea.

Another seventh-generation drillship, the Deep Value Driller, has completed its operations in Ghana on behalf of Eni Ghana Exploration & Production Limited and will be employed for a new project in Indonesia for Eni Ganal Deepwater Limited, with activities expected to commence by the end of the year.

The Scarabeo 9, having recently completed a successful drilling campaign in Egypt for Burullus Gas Company, an Egyptian oil and gas company active in offshore gas production, has started operations in Libya under a new contract with Eni North Africa BV, that will keep the rig active until early 2026.

Saipem's drilling units are known for bringing in reliability and operational strength to major projects.