BW Energy to Drill Kharas Appraisal Well in Namibia’s Orange Basin Using Deepsea Mira Rig
BW Energy has signed a contract to mobilize the Deepsea Mira semi-submersible rig for drilling the Kharas appraisal well on the Kudu license, located offshore in Namibia’s Orange Basin.
The rig is operated by Northern Ocean Ltd., under a previously announced platform-sharing agreement with Rhino Resources Ltd.
The rig will be deployed through BW Kudu Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of BW Energy. This gives the company access to a rig already operating in Namibian waters, along with a technically experienced team familiar with the region.
The agreement also prioritizes local content, with a strong focus on integrating Namibian professionals into the project.
The Kharas appraisal well is set to assess the gas production potential of the Kudu field. Drilling operations are scheduled for the second half of 2025, aligning with Namibia’s broader efforts to accelerate gas exploration and evaluate domestic resource potential.
BW Energy holds a 95% operating interest in the Kudu license, while NAMCOR E&P—the upstream arm of Namibia’s national oil company—maintains a 5% carried stake.
By collaborating with Rhino Resources, BW Energy is optimizing the use of the Deepsea Mira and simplifying operational logistics.
This strategic partnership between BW Energy, NAMCOR E&P, Northern Ocean Ltd., and Rhino Resources aims to deliver technically sound and efficient offshore operations.
The Kudu project continues to attract attention as a catalyst for unlocking Namibia’s gas reserves and forging new commercial energy partnerships in the region.
