North Sea operator Det norske has begun work on its first well in the Barents Sea.
The Norwegian firm has started drilling on the Langlitinden prospect as it looks to prove the presence of oil and gas on the Kobbe formation.
Previous exploration work nearby has discovered small hydrocarbon finds, while seismic data has shown signs of gas on the site, around 165km northwest of Hammerfest.
“Determined and efficient work in the license partnership makes us able to drill this well less than two years after the award,” said Det norske boss Terje Solheim.
“This is an exciting start to the new year.”
Work will be carried out on the well by the Transocean Barents semi-submersible rig.