Saipem has secured two significant offshore drilling contracts worth a combined total of approximately US$550 million. These contracts were awarded in the Middle East and the Mediterranean Sea.
In the Middle East, Saipem has obtained a ten-year extension to an existing contract, ensuring the continuity of operations for the Perro Negro 7 jack-up drilling unit. The Perro Negro 7 is a state-of-the-art jack-up rig capable of operating in water depths of up to 375 feet while adhering to the strictest regulations and highest environmental standards. Saipem said its presence in the area has increased, with seven rigs expected by the end of 2023.
Meanwhile, in the Mediterranean Sea, Saipem has been awarded a contract for the utilisation of the semisubmersible unit Scarabeo 9. Saipem said this contract, estimated to span around six months, with an optional extension, underscores its strong foothold in the Mediterranean drilling market. The Scarabeo 9 is a cutting-edge sixth-generation semisubmersible drilling rig equipped with advanced features, including a dual ram rig. It has the capability to operate in ultra-deep waters, reaching depths of up to 12,000 feet.
“The acquisition of this contract confirms Saipem’s solid positioning in the Mediterranean drilling market, an area which has been characterised over the years by appreciable stability and is expected to be able to contribute to keeping fleet utilisation rates high,” Saipem said.
Saipem is a leading company specialising in engineering, drilling, and construction projects in the energy and infrastructure sectors. It also operates and Guyana, and was most recently given the go-ahead by ExxonMobil Guyana to commence the final phase of the subsea work for the Stabroek Block project, Uaru.
