TGS Signs Letter of Award for 3D Vessel

ASKER, NORWAY--(Marketwire - Dec 5, 2011) - TGS announces that it has signed a letter of award with Dolphin Geophysical to charter the 12 streamer new build vessel, M/V Polar Duchess, for 3D multi-client projects in Europe during the 2012 summer season. The charter is expected to begin during first half of April and will last for approximately six months.

The details of the individual projects to be completed under this charter will be announced separately.

Company summary
TGS-NOPEC Geophysical Company (TGS) provides multi-client geoscience data and services to oil and gas Exploration and Production companies around the globe. TGS' geophysical and geological data products include multi-client seismic libraries, permanent reservoir monitoring, magnetic and gravity data, the industry's largest global database of digital well logs and regional interpretive products. TGS also provides high-end depth imaging services to help resolve complex seismic imaging problems. For more information visit TGS online at www.tgsnopec.com.

Forward-looking statements and contact information
All statements in this press release other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, which are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict, and are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove accurate. These factors include TGS' reliance on a cyclical industry and principal customers, TGS' ability to continue to expand markets for licensing of data, and TGS' ability to acquire and process data products at costs commensurate with profitability. Actual results may differ materially from those expected or projected in the forward-looking statements. TGS undertakes no responsibility or obligation to update or alter forward-looking statements for any reason.

TGS-NOPEC Geophysical Company ASA is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (OSLO: TGS).