Azerbaijan's SOCAR begins 3D seismic campaign at Shallow Water Gunashli

The State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) has launched a high-resolution 3D seismic survey in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea using ocean-bottom node (OBN) technology.

The survey is being conducted as part of SOCAR’s Shallow Water Gunashli (SWG) project, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

The initiative marks SOCAR’s first deployment of OBN technology in an area with a high concentration of offshore infrastructure. The survey zone includes 15 platforms and an extensive network of subsea communications.

The primary goal of the geophysical campaign is to obtain comprehensive, high-quality seismic data across the field and improve detailed mapping of its subsurface geological structure. The results are expected to support subsequent reserve estimates and development planning.

Given the density of industrial infrastructure in the area, the project required extensive preparatory work. Before offshore operations began, a comprehensive Hazard Identification (HAZID) study and risk assessment were carried out, with particular emphasis on the safety of active facilities.

A Simultaneous Operations (SIMOPS) plan was also developed jointly with the client to ensure close coordination among the teams involved in the project.

Offshore operations are currently underway. Around 75% of the receiver cable lines have been deployed, and the campaign has entered the continuous equipment-relocation, or “rolling,” phase.

By Vafa Guliyeva