Asker, Norway (1 September, 2009) - TGS-NOPEC Geophysical Company ASA (TGS) announced today that it has signed a conditional Letter of Intent with Polarcus Limited to utilize their first released vessel, the 12 streamer Polarcus Nadia. The charter will begin in December, 2009 and last for approximately 3 months with options for TGS to extend the charter in two 6 month increments under fixed commercial terms.
 
The vessel design incorporates many new and innovative features ranging from the distinctive ULSTEIN X-BOW® hull to the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, designed to maximize operational performance and minimize emissions. The sophisticated double hull design also incorporates a range of advanced safety features including a DP 2 dynamic positioning system. "We are excited, looking forward to work with this new, promising vessel provider when expanding our Multi-Client data library further." commented Robert Hobbs, TGS Chief Executive Officer.