Norwegian charterer TGS-NOPEC Geophysical Company (TGS) and US contractor Schlumberger have announced a big new 2D seismic project off Egypt.
They will acquire data over 10,000 sq km.
"Advanced new acquisition and imaging techniques will provide better illumination of complex subsalt structures," they said.
Acquisition will commence now and is expected to complete late in the first quarter of 2018.
The deal is part of an agreement entered into with South Valley Egyptian Petroleum Holding Company (GANOPE).
Schlumberger and TGS have a minimum 15-year period of exclusive multi-client rights for a 70,000 sq km area in the Red Sea.
"The unexplored offshore Egyptian Red Sea area is made up of large, untested structures and well-established hydrocarbon systems, which offer exceptional growth opportunities for oil companies," said TGS CEO Kristian Johansen.
"New imaging technologies are required to improve subsurface understanding and increase exploration success rates. The upcoming new multi-client 2D seismic acquisition program is the initial step in mitigating the complex salt imaging challenges of this unique opportunity."
