UK-based oil and gas explorer Ophir Energy has started drilling operations at the massive Ntsina block, offshore Gabon.
The firm says drilling of the Padouck Deep-1 well is under way using the Vantage Titanium Explorer drillship.
The well is the first to target the pre-salt play offshore in the North Gabon basin, which is estimated to contain potential recoverable resources of around 1 billion barrels.
The well is located at a water depth or around 835m, with plans to drill to a total depth of 3,500m.
Ophir, which has a 40% interest in the block, says drilling operations will take around 45 days. The firm says its share of the well cost is largely carried by partners Petrobas and OMV.
“The Padouck Deep-1 well is the first of three potentially transformational wells being drilled back to back by Ophir in Gabon targeting substantial oil resources,” said chief executive Nick Cooper.
“Padouck Deep is one of two pre-salt wells that will be drilled in the current campaign where the total play potential is estimated at c.4.0bnbbls from currently defined leads and prospects.”
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