Petronas Suriname has successfully concluded drilling operations at the Caiman-1 exploration well in offshore Block 52, marking a significant advancement in the company’s ongoing exploration and evaluation program. The drilling campaign, which commenced on July 21st, has yielded highly encouraging results that will substantially contribute to resource delineation and development concept evaluation for potential commercial projects in the region.
This operation represents the inaugural phase of a comprehensive four-well drilling campaign scheduled between 2025 and 2026, according to an official release from Staatsolie. Situated in the western sector of Block 52, the Caiman-1 well operation demonstrated remarkable local integration, with all logistical support—including materials, provisions, and fuel—being channeled through the shore base in Paramaribo. Personnel transportation to and from the drilling platform was exclusively managed through Surinamese infrastructure.
The operation’s successful localization strategy has significantly strengthened domestic supply chains while creating substantial opportunities for Surinamese businesses within the growing offshore sector. Block 52 encompasses a substantial 4,750 km² area located approximately 140 kilometers offshore, featuring water depths ranging from 60 to 1,000 meters, presenting both technical challenges and substantial resource potential.
The positive outcomes from Caiman-1 will enable Petronas to accelerate its assessment of viable development concepts while precisely defining the available hydrocarbon resources. This successful operation establishes a strong foundation for future commercial development and underscores Suriname’s emerging significance as a strategic player in offshore energy exploration.