Islamabad, Pakistan – February 23, 2026 – Premium Drilling Company (Pvt.) Ltd. (PDC), a premier Pakistan-based drilling contractor, today announced the mobilization of its state-of-the-art Rig-60 to commence drilling operations on a new ultra-deep exploratory well in the Kohat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This strategic deployment supports the continued development of Pakistan’s recently discovered hydrocarbon reserves and reinforces PDC’s commitment to strengthening national energy security.
The announcement follows recent encouraging discoveries in the region, including the Baragzai X-01 exploratory well operated by the Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDC), which tested 225 barrels of oil per day (BOPD) and 1.01 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCFD) of gas from the Hangu and Lumshiwal formations . These discoveries, while modest individually, collectively signal growing hydrocarbon potential in the Kohat basin and underscore the need for advanced drilling capabilities to fully realize the region’s prospects.
PDC’s Rig-60, the flagship of the company’s modern fleet, is specifically engineered for ultra-deep drilling challenges. With 2,000 HP capacity and equipped with managed pressure drilling technology, real-time downhole telemetry, and advanced well control systems, Rig-60 is ideally suited for the complex geological formations encountered in the Kohat region, where wells routinely exceed 5,000 meters in depth .
“Pakistan’s energy sector is entering a promising phase of renewed exploration activity, and Premium Drilling Company is proud to be at the forefront of this momentum,” said the CEO of Premium Drilling Company. “The recent discoveries in Kohat and Sindh demonstrate that significant hydrocarbon potential remains untapped across the country. Our deployment of Rig-60 brings world-class drilling technology and decades of operational expertise to help our clients convert these discoveries into sustainable production that benefits the nation.”
Strengthening Pakistan's Energy Security
Pakistan’s exploration and production sector is projected to grow at an aggregate EBITDAX compound annual rate of approximately 8% between fiscal years 2026 and 2028, with total output expected to expand by roughly 9% over the same period as mature field declines stabilize and new discoveries come online . Multiple discoveries announced in recent months—including OGDC’s Dars West-3 find in Sindh producing 9.70 MMSCFD of gas and 580 BOPD, and the Kohat discovery flowing 4,100 BOPD and 10.5 MMSCFD of gas—highlight the sector’s revitalization .
PDC’s Rig-60 operations will focus on evaluating deeper formations within the Nashpa Exploration License area, where multiple zones including Lockhart, Hangu, Lumshiwal, Samana Suk, Shinawari, Datta, and Kingriali formations have demonstrated commercial viability . The well is expected to reach a total depth exceeding 5,000 meters, requiring the advanced drilling capabilities that Rig-60 delivers.
Commitment to Operational Excellence and Sustainability
In keeping with PDC’s Zero Harm philosophy and ISO-certified management systems, all drilling operations will be conducted under comprehensive Health, Safety & Environment protocols. Rig-60’s advanced automation and real-time monitoring capabilities enable precision drilling while minimizing environmental footprint through optimized energy use and reduced emissions—aligning with PDC’s commitment to ISO 14001 and ISO 50001 standards.
The project is also expected to generate meaningful local employment opportunities, with PDC prioritizing the engagement of skilled workforce from surrounding communities and fostering knowledge transfer through technical training programs.
Looking Ahead
With a robust pipeline of opportunities and a modern, high-specification rig fleet, Premium Drilling Company remains well-positioned to support Pakistan’s growing exploration and production activities. The company continues to evaluate additional contracts across the country’s most promising basins, leveraging its legacy expertise and cutting-edge technology to deliver safe, efficient, and sustainable drilling solutions.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Media Relations
Premium Drilling Company (Pvt.) Ltd.
Email: info@pdcrigs.com
UAN: 111-000-1010
Website: www.pdcrigs.com
About Premium Drilling Company (Pvt.) Ltd.
Premium Drilling Company is a Pakistan-based drilling contractor founded by industry veterans with extensive experience in onshore and offshore operations. The company delivers high-performance drilling and well construction solutions to the oil, gas, and energy exploration sectors, combining advanced technology, operational excellence, and strict adherence to international safety and quality standards. Guided by a Zero Harm philosophy and ISO 9001, 14001, 45001, and 50001 certifications, PDC is committed to delivering safe, efficient, and environmentally conscious energy solutions that support long-term development without compromising future generations.
