UK independent Northern Petroleum has kicked off drilling operations on its La Tosca-1 well onshore Italy.

The well is targeting a 43 Bcf prospective gas prospect and will evaluate the exploration potential of the prospect mapped from 3D seismic on the Longastrino permit. The probe is situated within the prolific gas fairway of the Eastern Po Valley basin, with the Alfonsine gas field located in close proximity to the prospect, Northern said.

The well being drilled using the HDI Leonardo Drillmec HH220 rig and is expected to take up to 40 days to reach total depth. Northern’s share of the costs will be largely borne by its joint venture partner Orca Exploration Group Inc., it added.