Keppel secures repeat semisub from ENSCO

Keppel FELS Limited (Keppel FELS) has secured a repeat order for an ultra-deepwater semi submersible drilling rig from a wholly-owned subsidiary of ENSCO International Incorporated (ENSCO) in Dallas, Texas. The total project value is approximately $338 million and delivery is scheduled in the first quarter 2009.

To be named ENSCO 8501, this rig is similar to the first semi, ENSCO 8500, which ENSCO ordered with Keppel FELS in September 2005. Both semis will have the capability of drilling in water depths of up to 8,500 ft, and can be readily upgraded to 10,000 ft water-depth if required. Each rig is fitted with a DPS2 dynamic positioning system, eight 2,600KW thrusters and a single conventional drilling derrick system, with accommodation for up to 150 persons.

The pontoons and lower hull columns of the two ENSCO semis will be built in the Keppel Philippines shipyard in Batangas. When completed, these modules will be transported to Keppel FELS in Singapore to be assembled with the other parts of the semis. This event is significant to the Keppel Offshore & Marine group, because it marks Keppel Batangas? entry into the offshore sector as demand for offshore drilling rigs continues to rise.

Apart from the two ENSCO semis, Keppel FELS is currently constructing three other semis, undertaking a major conversion of a semi and fabricating 15 jackups.