13.04.2026 09:11
Turkey's first deep-sea drilling vessel, the Çağrı Bey, has set sail towards the CURAD-1 well in Somalia. After a 53-day journey, the ship, which departed from Mogadishu, aims to reach a depth of 7,500 meters. The drilling, which will begin after tests, is planned to last 6-9 months. Naval elements are also accompanying the operation as Turkey continues its global initiatives in the energy sector.
The Çağrı Bey Drilling Ship, which will carry out Turkey's first deep-sea exploration drilling abroad, has departed from Mogadishu Port to begin its mission in Somalia. The ship is heading towards the CURAD-1 well.
ON THE FIELD AFTER A 53-DAY JOURNEY
Having set sail from Mersin Taşucu Port on February 15, 2026, Çağrı Bey reached Somalia after a 53-day voyage. The ship, welcomed in a ceremony at Mogadishu Port on April 10, moved to its mission site after completing its final preparations.
NAVY AND SUPPORT SHIPS ACCOMPANY
While the support ships Altan, Korkut, and Sancar accompany Çağrı Bey on its journey, TCG Sancaktar, TCG Gökova, and TCG Bafra are also operating in the region for security.
DRILLING TARGET AT A DEPTH OF 7,500 METERS
After reaching the CURAD-1 well, located approximately 372 kilometers off the coast of Somalia, the ship will first position itself and then begin testing activities. With the completion of the tests, it is planned to drill a total depth of 7,500 meters, starting from 4,005 meters below the seabed at a water depth of 3,495 meters. This depth aims to be the second deepest sea well in the world.
DRILLING WILL LAST 6-9 MONTHS
An underwater robot capable of diving to 4,000 meters will also be used in the operation. If weather and sea conditions are favorable, it is anticipated that the drilling activities will be completed within 6 to 9 months.
MINISTER BAYRAKTAR: WE WILL WRITE THE EPIC OF BROTHERHOOD
Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar stated in a social media post, "We are starting Turkey's first overseas deep-sea drilling with Bismillah. We are working to write the epic of brotherhood, not exploitation, and to build the common prosperity of two brother countries."