Uzbekneftegaz establishes national drilling company

Uzbekneftegaz, the dominant oil and gas entity in Uzbekistan, has launched a new national drilling company, UNG Burg‘ilash. Registered on June 25 with an authorized capital of 10 billion soums (approximately $830,565), the company's primary mandate is to drill oil and gas wells across Uzbekistan's Ustyurt plateau and other prospective areas.

The company will concentrate on discovering and developing new hydrocarbon reserves while ensuring the continuity of stable production. Uzbekneftegaz stated that UNG Burg‘ilash will also champion the integration of advanced deep-drilling technologies and foster the development of a national cadre of drilling specialists. This initiative is projected to generate more than 1,000 new employment opportunities.

To facilitate its operations, UNG Burg‘ilash is set to acquire 21 modern ZJ-70 and ZJ-90 drilling rigs. These state-of-the-art machines feature digital control systems and are engineered to drill wells up to 9,000 meters deep, designed to withstand challenging geological conditions, including high-pressure and high-temperature environments. Initial deliveries of this equipment are expected to commence in October.

Further bolstering its capabilities, the company plans to procure high-pressure well cementing units, nitrogen and compressor systems, well testing and completion equipment, specialized transport vehicles, and other essential machinery. This comprehensive acquisition will enable UNG Burg‘ilash to manage the entire drilling process. The company also intends to recruit engineers and skilled professionals with international experience and collaborate with global service providers for various aspects of drilling operations.

Uzbekneftegaz anticipates that the adoption of modern technologies will enhance well construction quality, mitigate operational risks, and shorten drilling durations. Looking ahead, UNG Burg‘ilash aspires to extend its drilling and oilfield services beyond Uzbekistan to neighboring countries and other international markets. The establishment of this new entity introduces competition within the Uzbekneftegaz group, as it will operate alongside Uzneftgaz Burg’ulash Ishlari.