Additional deepwater drillship
Pride International previously ordered drillships at Samsung Heavy Industries
Consistent with the company's previous four ultra-deepwater drillships ordered since 2007, the new unit will be constructed on a fixed price basis at the SHI shipyard in Geoje, South Korea, with an expected delivery in mid-2013. The rig will be equipped with some of the most technically advanced well construction features available in the offshore drilling industry.
The rig's design and capabilities, which includes a dual derrick, allow for numerous well construction and field development activities that can be performed in parallel, producing increased rig efficiencies. A 160-ton automated heave compensating construction crane shall allow for the deployment of subsea production equipment without interference with ongoing drilling operations.
In addition, the agreement with SHI includes an option for a second unit at similar terms and conditions, which could be exercised during the first quarter of 2011.
