Russia Taps AI to Crack Complex Oil Fields—And Boost Extraction Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is drilling its way into one of Russia’s toughest industries

Energy companies across the country are beginning to embed AI directly into extraction workflows, targeting hard-to-develop reserves with algorithmic precision. One of the frontrunners: RussNeft, which is now deploying AI at the Vostochno-Kamennoe field in Western Siberia.

Speaking at the company’s annual shareholder meeting, RussNeft President Yevgeny Tolochok announced that AI will become part of the company’s production cycle this year, transforming how geological data is analyzed, optimizing field development, and amplifying decision-making accuracy.

The company’s already making strides: 35 new wells have been drilled, a crude oil processing facility is up and running, and supporting infrastructure is in place. With AI and automation entering the mix, engineers will spend less time crunching data and more time applying insight—speeding up operations and tightening forecast models.

“AI will enable faster, smarter decisions in the most complex environments,” said Tolochok. “This isn’t just tech for tech’s sake—it’s the next phase of production efficiency.”

Shareholders are on board. RussNeft’s digital transformation strategy has received full backing, with expectations that AI integration will not only boost productivity but drive long-term value and market capitalization.

In a landscape of volatile prices and shifting energy priorities, Russia’s oil sector is betting big on AI—not just to extract more, but to extract smarter.