Turkey’s Oruç Reis Vessel Embarks on Seismic Research Mission in Somalia

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan launched the Oruç Reis seismic research vessel for a mission in Somalia on October 5, 2024. This initiative follows a major agreement with Somalia for exploration rights. The mission, accompanied by two naval frigates, aims to conduct critical 3D seismic surveys in a 15,000 square kilometers area, representing Turkey’s strategic energy ambitions in Africa and its commitment to safeguarding energy interests amid regional security challenges.

On October 5, 2024, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan formally inaugurated the departure of the Oruç Reis seismic research vessel for a significant mission to Somalia. This event, attended by the President, marks the vessel’s first major operation following an agreement established in March between Turkey’s Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources and Somalia’s Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, which facilitates both onshore and offshore exploration within Somalia’s territory. Accompanying the Oruç Reis are the G-class frigates, TCG Gediz and TCG Gokova, modernized ships equipped with advanced systems, particularly the GENESIS combat management system, ensuring robust naval protection throughout the mission. This undertaking symbolizes Turkey’s strategic engagement in the Horn of Africa, where it has secured exclusive exploration rights in a maritime zone spanning 15,000 square kilometers off the Somali coast. The anticipated seven-month mission entails conducting 3D seismic surveys across various licensed areas, with the aim of gathering essential data to pinpoint prospective drilling sites for future energy extraction efforts. The presence of Turkish naval forces reflects Ankara’s dedication to protecting its energy interests, especially in regions prone to security challenges, such as piracy and regional conflicts. This operation not only extends Turkey’s influence within Africa but also underscores its broader ambitions in securing energy resources beyond the Mediterranean, which has been the focus of previous controversial exploration activities by the Oruç Reis.

The Oruç Reis vessel has been controversial due to its involvement in various exploratory activities, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean, which have led to heightened tensions with neighboring countries, including Greece and Cyprus. The disputes primarily arise from competing claims regarding Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) in resource-rich maritime territories. Turkey’s explorations commenced in 2020 around the Greek island of Kastellorizo—a site claimed by both nations under differing interpretations of maritime law. Turkey maintains that islands do not possess complete EEZs, contradicting the stances of Greece and Cyprus, who adhere to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Notably, Turkey is not a signatory to UNCLOS and advocates for a more adaptable approach concerning maritime boundaries to protect its interests, a position that has led to escalated tensions between it and Greece, including military confrontations and diplomatic disputes. In response, NATO has intervened, introducing measures aimed at mitigating accidental clashes between the two nations.

The deployment of the Oruç Reis seismic research vessel to Somalia signifies Turkey’s growing maritime aspirations and strategic interests in Africa’s energy resources. The mission underscores Turkey’s commitment to securing energy exploration rights amid ongoing geopolitical challenges in the Eastern Mediterranean, where previous activities have spurred significant tensions with neighboring countries. By conducting seismic surveys off the coast of Somalia, Turkey seeks to enhance its influence in the Horn of Africa while protecting its energy interests against potential security threats.

Original Source: www.armyrecognition.com