France: Rhone Maritime seismic shows large features

Initial analysis of 2D seismic from a 7,500 km 2D seismic survey on the Rhone Maritime concession in the Mediterranean off southern France indicates the presence of “a number of significant structures,” said Melrose Resources PLC.

Noble Energy Inc. operates the block, in which Melrose has a 27.5% nonoperated interest. Early interpretation focuses on the post-salt Pliocene and presalt Miocene sections that have yielded material gas discoveries elsewhere in the Mediterranean, Melrose said.

Depending on the outcome of detailed interpretation, the joint venture may opt to shoot 3D seismic over the most promising areas of the block prior to initiating a drilling program, Melrose said.