Keppel FELS has won contracts valued at $393 million to build two KFELS B Class Bigfoot jackups for Qatar-based Gulf Drilling (GDI).
Offshore staff
SINGAPORE -- Keppel FELS has won contracts valued at $393 million to build two KFELS B Class Bigfoot jackups for Qatar-based Gulf Drilling (GDI).
The rigs are to be delivered in 3Q 2013 and 3Q 2014. They represent GDI's first new orders in six years, and will expand the company's jackup fleet to seven rigs.
The new rigs will be adapted to GDI’s requirements, and will be designed to operate in the higher ambient temperature of the Middle East. The KFELS B Class Bigfoot is equipped with larger spud cans for reduced bearing pressure, and provides expanded operational coverage, especially in areas of soft soil.
GDI's rigs will also feature an enhanced, more robust leg design. Each will have a full 15,000-psi (1,034-bar) BOP system, a 75-ft (22.8-m) cantilever outreach, and accommodation for 150 personnel.
Previously Keppel FELS delivered two KFELS B Class jackups to GDI, the Al-Khor and Al-Zubarah.
Tong Chong Heong, CEO of Keppel Offshore & Marine, said: "GDI is also upgrading and repairing its rigs at Nakilat-Keppel Offshore & Marine, our joint venture shipyard with Qatar Gas Transport Co.”
