Offshore drilling contractor Noble Corporation has secured a $136.2 million contract to deploy its 2014-built drillship Noble Viking for an undisclosed client in Brunei, according to Splash247. The contract covers six firm wells with options for three additional wells, scheduled to commence in early 2028 and run through the fourth quarter of 2028. The estimated duration is 296 days, yielding an approximate day rate of $460,000, excluding managed pressure drilling and other services.
Contract Details and Scope
The firm scope comprises six wells valued at $136.2 million, with additional options for three wells. The program will begin in early 2028 and is expected to keep the rig contracted through Q4 2028. Splash247 did not disclose the customer's identity.
Current and Upcoming Campaigns
The Noble Viking is currently engaged in a drilling campaign in Papua New Guinea that will conclude in August. Immediately thereafter, the rig will mobilize to Malaysia for another campaign, set to be completed in October this year. These consecutive assignments indicate strong regional demand for ultra-deepwater drillships in Southeast Asia.
Implications for the Offshore Drilling Market
For energy traders and analysts, this contract signals sustained investment in offshore exploration and development in Brunei, a key oil and gas producer in Southeast Asia. The Noble Viking's back-to-back campaigns highlight high utilization rates for modern deepwater rigs. The day rate inferred from the contract value reflects robust pricing for seventh-generation drillships in a competitive market. The contract also extends Noble Corporation's backlog into 2028, providing revenue visibility.
Key Data Summary
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Contractor | Noble Corporation |
| Vessel | Noble Viking (2014-built) |
| Location | Brunei (undisclosed customer) |
| Contract Value | ~$136.2 million (excluding MPD & add-on services) |
| Firm Wells | 6 |
| Option Wells | 3 |
| Start Date | Early 2028 |
| Duration | ~296 days (through Q4 2028) |
| Current Campaigns | Papua New Guinea (ending Aug), Malaysia (ending Oct) |
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