Record-Breaking: Russia Deploys Domestic 3D Seismic Survey System
A domestically developed 3D seismic survey system has been deployed for the first time in Russia’s Yamal region, using an unprecedented 15,000 wireless modules to capture and process subsurface data.
The project was carried out by Gazprom Neft and Tyumenskaya servisnaya geofizicheskaya kompaniya (Tyumen Service Geophysical Company, TSGK) at the Novogodneye field in the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug.
Rethinking Seismic Exploration
There is no doubt that 15,000 wireless modules represent a record for the Russian industry. Previously, deployments did not exceed 8,000 modules, and domestic equipment was used only alongside foreign systems. In effect, operators obtained a highly detailed subsurface model, generated using a range of digital tools to support future field development planning.
The survey covered more than 450 square kilometers. Seismic exploration relies on generating elastic waves that reflect off rock formations and are recorded at the surface. Data interpretation enables high-resolution imaging of subsurface structures at depths of several kilometers.
The wireless system allows remote control and monitoring of the entire field deployment. It is compatible with existing recording systems, adapted for complex terrain and supports the “Zelyonaya seysmika” (Green Seismic) approach, which minimizes environmental impact on forested areas. Over 10 years of applying this method, Gazprom Neft has preserved more than 8.7 million trees.
Since its component supply chain is not dependent on external factors, this domestic wireless system is more accessible than foreign alternatives.
Field Tests Confirm Performance
The development by Tyumen-based engineers has demonstrated its effectiveness and scalability. The technology is considered ready for deployment across the industry and for use in Gazprom Neft’s exploration projects in other regions. Experts note that such projects strengthen sector resilience and create a solid foundation for expanding Russia’s mineral resource base. Successful implementation is expected to accelerate adoption and improve overall seismic exploration efficiency.
Toward Greater Autonomy
This project reflects a long-term, systematic effort across the industry. Back in 2020, Gazprom Neft developed a unified digital platform to manage seismic exploration processes. The project was implemented in partnership with LANIT-TERCOM, part of the LANIT Group. The platform was designed to improve exploration efficiency by leveraging Gazprom Neft’s proprietary database of seismic results across multiple regions. It uses algorithm-driven selection of optimal approaches for studying prospective areas, taking geological similarities into account.
Thus, Gazprom Neft and its partners can review data on each field within a single platform, continuously updating the database with new project data and uploading maps of surveyed areas. This has simplified workflows for oilfield service teams and accelerated access to information about new fields. Planning and execution efficiency across exploration programs has increased significantly.
Created by Gazprom Neft “Tsifrovoy dvoynik seysmorazvedki” (Seismic Digital Twin) was also recognized as one of the top innovations of 2022. The system supports planning, execution and analysis of oil and gas exploration projects and is built on data collected since 1999 across more than 800 exploration assets. It is used to optimize resource allocation and exploration methods. The platform provides real-time dashboard access to all stakeholders, improving coordination, enabling clear tracking of project status and allowing early identification of risks and deviations.
All Gazprom Neft seismic projects are now managed using the Seismic Digital Twin. As of 2023, the system has reduced project cycle time by 25%.
In practice, hardware and field technologies are evolving in parallel with digital platforms. In today’s energy sector, success depends not on individual tools but on the integration of equipment, data and analytics. Breakthrough concepts in Russia’s oil and gas industry are built on years of R&D and extensive field testing.
