Hossein Motamedi told Shana that the Haftkel–Naft-Sefid 3D seismic project (Tango area) is one of the Exploration Directorate's key geophysical projects in Khuzestan Province and the Hendijan area. It was carried out to obtain accurate seismic data, improve understanding of subsurface structures, and raise the quality of exploration studies in the region.

He added that the project was defined and executed under a contract covering more than 602 square kilometers and over 30,000 seismic shots.

Overcoming Operational Challenges and Achieving Project Goals

Referring to the challenges facing the project, the Deputy for Earth Sciences said seismic data acquisition ran into complex conditions and unforeseen restrictions. The most significant of these was the situation created by the imposed war.

Motamedi said these conditions halted operations for 97 days. Through sustained follow-up, coordination among the various units, and the measures needed to remove operational obstacles, work resumed on 16 Khordad 1405 (6 June 2026) and finished three months ahead of schedule.

Stressing the importance of keeping exploration going in difficult circumstances, he said that despite the interruption and numerous operational challenges, the efforts of specialists, experts, and the operational and contractor teams allowed the seismic acquisition to finish three months early.

The Role of 3D Seismic Data in Advancing Exploration Studies

Explaining the project's technical significance, Motamedi said 3D seismic acquisition is a key tool for understanding subsurface structures and reducing geological uncertainty. The project, he said, can provide a solid basis for improving exploration studies in the region.

He added that once processed and interpreted, the data can play an effective role in a more accurate understanding of the area's geological and structural features, in assessing potential hydrocarbon capacity, and in supporting technical decisions in future exploration programs.

Citing the lessons of the project, Motamedi said that beyond acquiring geophysical data, one of its major achievements was valuable experience in managing seismic projects under complex operating conditions, confronting unforeseen risks, and sustaining operations in difficult circumstances.

Continuing Geophysical Activity in the Path of Exploration Development

In closing, the Deputy for Earth Sciences at NIOC's Exploration Directorate stressed that expanding geophysical operations and adopting new technologies in subsurface studies are key pillars of exploration plans. The Exploration Directorate, drawing on the scientific and technical expertise of its specialists and the capacity of its operational and contractor teams, is pursuing this path with determination.

He noted that completing seismic acquisition in the Haftkel–Naft-Sefid project does not mark the end of exploration in the area. It is a step toward better understanding of subsurface potential and toward laying the groundwork for future decisions on identifying the country's hydrocarbon resources.