OMV Petrom’s Krum-1 well misses gas in Bulgaria’s Han Asparuh block

April 03, 2026

(WO) — OMV Petrom has completed drilling of the Krum-1 exploration well in the Han Asparuh Block offshore Bulgaria, with results showing no significant gas volumes.

The well, drilled to a depth of approximately 3,500 meters (about 11,480 feet), is the second exploration well completed in the block following the Vinekh well. Drilling began in February 2026.

While the well did not encounter commercial gas, the company said data gathered from both wells will help improve understanding of the Black Sea basin, where exploration remains at an early stage.

“As exploration in the deep Black Sea is still at an early stage, each well contributes valuable insights into the basin’s subsurface characteristics and its future potential,” the company said.

OMV Petrom said it remains committed to offshore exploration in Bulgaria as part of its broader strategy.

“We remain committed to our exploration strategy and continue to pursue opportunities in the Bulgarian offshore, recognising the significant potential of the Black Sea basin,” said Cristian Hubati, member of OMV Petrom’s executive board responsible for exploration and production. “We recently signed a farm-in agreement for the exploration of the Han Tervel block together with Shell and TPAO, and we look forward to a successful collaboration.”

The results highlight the early-stage nature of exploration in the Black Sea, where operators continue to evaluate resource potential through ongoing drilling and partnerships.

Connect with World Oil
Connect with World Oil, the upstream industry's most trusted source of forecast data, industry trends, and insights into operational and technological advances.