Oruç Reis Completes 234-Day Seismic Mission in Somali Waters

MOGADISHU – Turkey’s Oruç Reis seismic research vessel has successfully concluded a 234-day mission in Somali waters, collecting crucial data that will support the evaluation of Somalia’s maritime jurisdiction areas.

According to a statement by Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar, the vessel operated in three designated blocks and gathered 3D seismic data covering a total area of 4,464 square kilometers.

“The mission, which began on October 25, 2024, marks a significant milestone in Turkey-Somalia energy cooperation,” Bayraktar said. “The data obtained will serve as a guiding reference in future assessments of Somalia’s offshore potential.”

The Oruç Reis is scheduled to depart from Mogadishu Port on June 15, 2025, returning to Turkey with comprehensive subsurface imaging data that could play a vital role in hydrocarbon exploration efforts.

The seismic campaign was carried out under the strategic energy cooperation agreement signed between Turkey and Somalia in March 2024. The agreement grants Turkey exploration and development rights in Somali maritime zones, while ensuring that Somalia retains full sovereignty over its resources.