First appraisal well spudded on the Karat deep gas structure

The first appraisal well on the Karat structure spudded on 14 March, targeting a carbonate reservoir between 5,200 and 5,900 metres with expected pressures above 1,000 bar and hydrogen sulphide content of 6 to 9 per cent.

The well uses managed-pressure drilling and a full sour-service casing programme. Two further appraisal wells follow through 2027 and 2028, alongside extended well testing and a materials selection study for any future development.

Falaj operates the appraisal with a 40 per cent working interest. Concept selection is scheduled for 2029; no development decision has been taken and relinquishment remains a possible outcome.