I had a brief chat with tech rep recently.
Whoever has been following the threads may remember I had some criticism of the team in the past. After discussing with them, what they have previously announced, staffing, processes and methodologies, Im happy to eat my words. I came away convinced that we have a highly experienced and competent group of staff in all facets of the project. Sonagol has also seconded technical staff onto the team. The team/JV is committed to achieving success in what has been described as one of the largest new fields currently being developed anywhere in the world (and thats just Unit 1B).
My biggest gripe about cement behind casing in the most fractured zone of Unit 1B in Amistad-1(Alameda-2) was put to bed. It happened due to packer failure - not operator error. Amistad-1 was designed to test 5 intervals (we knew that). As the co has said, they were trying to get every cents worth out of each well, and that has its attendant risks. The wells from here on, are single purpose. Easier to manage and less that can go wrong.
Do not underestimate the impact of resolving the drilling and completion fluid chemistry and compatibility. Recurrence of the damage in future wells is not on the cards. They have solved that. The proprietary solution, if successful, may give them opportunities to do workovers elsewhere in Cuba (my recollection was they had an option to o a workover in another field, on a success fee basis, don't know if it is still live).
@VOGC thx for your views.
sat photo is from 19th May 2025
(20min delay)