Aftab Seismic Project Concludes on Schedule

Commissioning and Project Overview

The Aftab 2D seismic drilling project, commissioned by Kish Petroleum Engineering Services Company (KPE), stands as one of the most challenging seismic operations carried out in Iran. The area’s harsh topography, structurally complex and diverse formations, extremely difficult access routes, hazardous terrain, the need for extensive logistical support and other unique characteristics turned this project into a true test of capability and endurance.

Initial Assessments and Entry Into the Aftab Field

At the outset, the project lines were reviewed twice by drilling experts. Based on their assessments, considering issues such as low operational efficiency, worn equipment and the two-dimensional nature of the project that would increase dispersion and fatigue among teams, the general recommendation was to avoid entering the project. Yet our Geotechnical Drilling team was driven by a commitment to challenge itself and prove its experience and capabilities. In February 2025, the team officially commenced the Aftab project and deployed the first crew on Line 27.

By mid-February, the operation had expanded to four manual drilling crews and one HY 100 tractor-based unit. However, road construction difficulties and complex point deployment slowed overall progress. Despite the company’s intention to increase the number of crews and equipment, the conditions did not allow the addition of new units until early May.

In May, two more manual drilling rigs were added, bringing the total number of rigs to seven. This number remained active until late September. In early October, the HY 100 rig was reassigned to the Hendijan project. Ultimately, the Aftab project reached completion with four manual drilling rigs.

Operational Challenges in the Aftab Seismic Project

The project faced several demanding conditions that shaped every phase of execution. Access to the working area was extremely difficult due to its dead-end geographical position, turning transportation into a time-consuming and resource-heavy task. Extreme heat and high humidity created working conditions that were nearly unbearable, pushing both personnel and equipment to their limits. Long distances between scattered crews added another layer of strain, intensifying physical fatigue and accelerating vehicle wear. These factors collectively made the Aftab seismic drilling operation one of the most challenging environments the team had ever encountered.

Key Results and Achievements Delivered

Despite the obstacles, the project delivered impactful results. The team successfully supported the completion of the complex Khormoj and Shanbeh zones in the Aftab project for KPE, demonstrating strong operational integration. This initiative also marked the first collaboration with KPE as a geotechnical drilling contractor, establishing a foundation for future partnerships. Continuous production was maintained throughout the campaign, even in one of the hottest regions of the country and under the toughest operational conditions. The team executed a drilling operation that no other contractor had previously been able to accomplish, showcasing remarkable technical capability. Their performance highlighted exceptional speed, agility, and coordinated management across all activities. Even with overlaps involving three other operational projects, logistical and technical support remained uninterrupted. All drilling works were completed without major incidents, thanks to the expertise and discipline of the field teams working in extremely challenging terrain.

Contract Scope

Drilling volume: 6,000 seismic shot holes
Client: Kish Petroleum Engineering Services Company (KPE)
End client: Exploration Directorate

Project Highlights

More than 87,000 man-hours without major incidents
Over 30,000 minutes of HSE training
More than 1,500 hours of on-site HSE inspections

The Aftab project became a true trial of endurance. Heat, geographical dead ends and unforgiving terrain turned every step into a new challenge. Yet, the Geotechnical Drilling team pushed forward with persistence, focus and collective strength. They overcame obstacles many considered impossible and reached a finish line that stands as more than a conclusion. It is a renewed affirmation that in the world of demanding operations, it is effort and resilience that draw the brightest seismic lines on the map.