Uzbekneftegaz establishes national drilling company
Uzbekneftegaz has established UNG Burg‘ilash to explore hydrocarbons, develop fields and drill deep wells. The company will acquire 21 ZJ-70 and ZJ-90 drilling rigs, with the first deliveries expected to begin in October.
Uzbekneftegaz, Uzbekistan's largest oil and gas corporation, has launched a new national drilling firm named UNG Burg‘ilash.
UNG Burg‘ilash officially registered on June 25, as per the corporate registry, with an authorized capital of 10 billion soums (approximately $830,565).
The company's primary objective is to drill oil and gas wells in Uzbekistan's Ustyurt plateau and other promising regions. It will concentrate on exploring and developing new hydrocarbon reserves while ensuring consistent production.
Uzbekneftegaz stated that the new company will also promote the adoption of advanced deep-drilling technologies and contribute to the establishment of a national training program for drilling specialists. Over 1,000 new jobs are anticipated to be created.
To support its operations, UNG Burg‘ilash will acquire 21 modern ZJ-70 and ZJ-90 drilling rigs. These rigs will feature digital control systems and be capable of drilling wells to depths of up to 9,000 meters.
The initial deliveries of the drilling rigs are slated for October. This equipment is designed to operate in challenging geological conditions, including high-pressure and high-temperature environments.
Additionally, the company will progressively acquire high-pressure well cementing units, nitrogen and compressor systems, well testing and completion equipment, specialized transport vehicles, and other machinery. This will enable UNG Burg‘ilash to conduct drilling operations throughout the entire drilling process.
The company also intends to recruit engineers and skilled specialists with international experience.
UNG Burg‘ilash plans to collaborate with international service providers in areas such as drilling fluid preparation, well cementing, wireline logging, drilling bit supply and maintenance, and well testing.
Uzbekneftegaz indicated that the implementation of modern technologies is expected to enhance well construction quality, mitigate operational risks, and reduce drilling times.
In the long term, the company aims to offer drilling and oilfield services not only within Uzbekistan but also in neighboring countries and other international markets.
The new company will compete with Uzneftgaz Burg’ulash Ishlari, another drilling enterprise within the Uzbekneftegaz group.
Last year, Uzbekneftegaz produced 25.2 billion cubic meters of natural gas, falling short of its production target. For 2026–2027, the company plans to maintain stable production levels while expanding gas reserves and increasing gas processing capacity.