Turkish Ship Oruc Reis Sets Sail for Oil Exploration in Somalia
The Turkish research vessel Oruc Reis is embarking on a significant mission to explore energy resources off the coast of Somalia. This initiative follows a memorandum of understanding signed between Turkey and Somalia in March, aimed at evaluating and developing oil production in Somali territorial waters. The Turkish Energy Minister, Alparslan Bayraktar, confirmed that Oruc Reis will conduct comprehensive oil and gas exploration and research activities.
Currently docked at the port of Filyos in Turkey's Zonguldak province, Oruc Reis is preparing for its departure to Somalia, with a planned route that includes a stop in Istanbul before heading south. The vessel is set to undertake seismic research in three licensed exploration fields, each covering an area of 5,000 square kilometers. This extensive mission is expected to last approximately seven months and will be supported by additional ships, including the Zaganos Pasha and Sinjar, as well as two Turkish Navy frigates.
The Oruc Reis, which began construction in Istanbul Shipyards in 2012, officially entered service in 2015 and has a rich history of exploration, including missions in the Mediterranean Sea. Measuring 87 meters in length and 23 meters in width, it is one of only six multi-purpose research vessels globally, equipped with advanced technology for conducting seismic surveys at depths of up to 15,000 meters. Its capabilities extend beyond oil and gas exploration to include environmental assessments and site selection for various marine infrastructures.
This mission not only marks a strategic partnership between Turkey and Somalia but also highlights Turkey's growing role in energy exploration within the region. As the Oruc Reis sets sail, it represents a significant step towards enhancing energy security and resource development in Somalia.
