88 Energy (88E) has secured access to the Kad River 3D seismic dataset, covering its newly acquired Kad River East leases on Alaska’s North Slope, as it looks to progress exploration across a high-potential and under-explored area.
The dataset spans about 17,920 acres of 100% working interest acreage east of the Trans Alaska Pipeline System. The company said the data, alongside historical well logs, will support a data-driven exploration programme and the maturation of prospects across the leases.
Importantly, the interpretation of the 3D seismic is expected to lead to a maiden Prospective Resource estimate in the second half of calendar year 2026. The Kad River East position is described as a longer-term opportunity, complementing near-term activity at the South Prudhoe project, including the planned Augusta-1 well.
Initial technical work at Kad River East has identified a multi-reservoir petroleum system, supported by historical well data showing hydrocarbon indications across several formations. Nearby well results, including the Sockeye-2 flow test, further highlight the potential of the region, with strong flow rates achieved from similar reservoir systems.
88 Energy highlighted that integrating multiple 3D seismic datasets across its North Slope portfolio enhances prospect definition and reduces pre-drill risk. The use of advanced interpretation techniques, including AI-based tools, is expected to improve targeting in complex geological settings.
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This marks a technical step forward rather than an immediate value catalyst, but it strengthens 88 Energy’s exploration toolkit in Alaska. Access to modern 3D seismic across a larger footprint should improve targeting and reduce risk, which is critical in frontier-style acreage. While Kad River East is positioned as longer term, it adds depth to the portfolio alongside nearer-term drilling, giving the company multiple shots at exploration success.