TGS and Allton Partner to Expand Deepwater OBN Acquisition Technology

13 July 2026

(Image credit: TGS)

TGS, a leading global provider of energy data and intelligence, and Allton have announced the execution of a strategic collaboration agreement focused on accelerating the deployment of innovative deepwater ocean-bottom node (OBN) deployment and recovery technology. For the duration and under the scope of a confidential financial arrangement, TGS and Allton have agreed on exclusive rights and priority access to Allton A1 units, establishing a foundation for the companies to work together in bringing the next generation of OBN acquisition capabilities to the industry.

The Allton technology is designed to simplify the deployment and recovery of ocean bottom nodes, reducing operational complexity and creating opportunities to acquire high-quality seismic data more efficiently. By lowering the cost and logistical barriers traditionally associated with OBN surveys, the technology has the potential to unlock exploration opportunities in emerging and frontier basins where conventional OBN solutions have historically struggled to meet economic thresholds.

“This collaboration aligns with TGS’ strategy of delivering high-quality subsurface data through innovative acquisition technologies,” said Carel Hooijkaas, Executive Vice President, Marine Data Acquisition at TGS. “By combining TGS’ industry-leading geophysical expertise with Allton’s innovative deployment technology, we believe we can expand the range of projects where OBN can be deployed effectively and economically.”

The companies believe the technology can play a significant role in moving high-resolution seabed seismic imaging earlier into the exploration cycle. Earlier access to high-quality subsurface data can help exploration and development companies reduce uncertainty, optimize prospect evaluation, and make more informed investment decisions.

“The industry continues to seek better ways to acquire the highest-quality seismic data while improving efficiency and reducing costs,” said Nils Haugestad, CEO at Allton. “The Allton A1 system offers the industry an economic way to acquire OBN data where it previously would be cost-prohibitive. We are excited to collaborate with TGS to accelerate the commercialization and application of our technology across new and existing markets.”

OBN acquisition has become an increasingly important tool for imaging complex subsurface structures and supporting exploration, appraisal, and field development activities. The TGS-Allton collaboration aims to broaden the applicability of these techniques by making OBN surveys more accessible and economically attractive in a wider range of operating environments.

Through this partnership, TGS and Allton will work together to evaluate opportunities across multiple basins globally, supporting clients with improved access to high-quality geophysical data and enabling better data-driven decisions throughout the exploration and development lifecycle.