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The National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia, NAMCOR, has announced the start of drilling operations on the Volans-1X exploration well located offshore Namibia in Block PEL 85 of the Orange Basin. The drilling is being conducted in partnership with Rhino Resources, the operator of the block, along with Azule Energy and Korres Investments.
The Volans-1X well is being drilled by the semi-submersible rig Deepsea Mira, operated by Northern Ocean, in water depths of around 1,200 metres. The drilling operation is expected to take approximately 55 days to complete.
This marks the third drilling campaign in Block PEL 85 and is a major step forward in assessing the hydrocarbon potential of the Orange Basin. The basin has garnered attention for its promising reserves, and this specific well targets a new channel fairway believed to contain a sheet-like reservoir formation. If successful, the well could open up new development avenues and further solidify Namibia’s position as an emerging player in the offshore oil and gas sector.
The joint venture partners on Block PEL 85 include Rhino Resources and Azule Energy, each holding 42.5 percent, while NAMCOR holds 10 percent and Korres Investments holds the remaining 5 percent.
Victoria Sibeya, NAMCOR’s Acting Managing Director, said the corporation’s involvement in the Volans-1X project reflects its ongoing commitment to responsible energy development in Namibia. She highlighted the importance of strengthening upstream capabilities and exploring ventures that will benefit national development, local industry participation, and long-term energy stability.
Well construction services are being overseen by EXCEED, with integrated well services provided locally through Halliburton Namibia. This approach supports the joint venture’s emphasis on building local capacity and ensuring Namibian participation in the growing oil and gas value chain.
