Türkiye (Turkey) is set to launch its first overseas deepwater exploration project in February 2026 off the coast of Somalia. This operation follows a bilateral energy agreement signed in 2024 aimed at diversifying Türkiye’s energy sources and reducing import reliance.
The project will be led by the Cagri Bey, a seventh-generation ultra-deepwater drillship recently added to Türkiye’s energy fleet.
Operations will focus on three exploration zones, each spanning approximately 5,000 sq km (1,930 sq miles).
Drilling will take place in ultra-deep waters at depths of roughly 3,480 meters, with an additional 3,500 meters of drilling planned beneath the seabed.
Somalia is estimated to hold significant potential reserves of 30 billion barrels of oil or more, though these have remained largely unexploited due to historical instability.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has described the project as having a “game-changing impact” for the region. The initiative reinforces Türkiye’s role as a key partner to the Federal Government of Somalia, particularly amid regional tensions involving Ethiopia and the breakaway region of Somaliland.
In addition to hydrocarbon exploration, Türkiye is discussing the establishment of a spaceport in Somalia by 2026 for satellite launches and long-range missile testing.
Security & Infrastructure: Türkiye is also addressing significant logistical challenges, including building necessary local infrastructure (such as roads) and providing security for the drilling operations through its established military presence in the region, including the Camp TURKSOM base.
Note by Alessandro Bazzoni