MERSIN — Turkey’s new drilling vessel, the Cagri Bey, has departed from Mersin Port heading toward the Somali coast to commence its inaugural international deep-water energy operation.
Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar confirmed the deployment as part of Ankara’s strategy to attain energy independence via enhanced oil and gas exploration.
Timeline and Security
Exploration activities in Somalia‘s waters are projected to commence between April and May 2026.
The mission is being safeguarded by the Turkish Naval Forces Command, ensuring security for the vessel and its crew in the strategic waters off the Horn of Africa.
Building on Seismic Data
This deployment follows a successful 3D seismic survey carried out last year by the Oruc Reis research vessel, which mapped approximately 4,465 square kilometers of the Somali offshore territory. The data gathered during that phase has been critical in identifying potential drilling sites.
Authorities predict Somalia’s offshore blocks may contain 30 to 40 billion barrels of oil, reserves with the potential to reshape the country’s economic future.
The Agreement
The operation is governed by a Production Sharing Agreement signed in 2024. Under the terms of the deal, Turkey will receive up to 90% of initial revenues to cover the substantial costs associated with exploration and drilling operations.
