**Dolphin Drilling Rig Commences Operations for Oil India Offshore India**
A significant milestone has been achieved in the oil and gas industry as the Blackford Dolphin, a deepwater semi-submersible rig owned by Dolphin Drilling, has kicked off its long-term drilling campaign with Oil India Limited off the coast of India. The rig, which boasts a maximum operating water depth of 6,000 feet and a maximum drilling depth of 30,000 feet, arrived in Indian waters last October and has since completed necessary customs clearance and client acceptance.
Built in 1974, the Blackford Dolphin underwent significant upgrades in 2008 to enhance its operational capabilities. This latest deployment marks the rig’s return to the Indian market, emphasizing Dolphin Drilling’s strategic focus on securing long-term, profitable contracts in key growth regions. The commencement of this project signifies not only a return to existing operations but also a commitment to supporting India’s ambitious energy goals.
Dolphin Drilling has a proven track record of operating in Indian waters, reinforced by a strategic partnership with Dynamic Drilling, a well-established Indian offshore drilling contractor. “We are excited to announce the start of Blackford Dolphin’s operations in India,” stated Bjørnar Iversen, CEO of Dolphin Drilling. “This contract not only signifies our return to the Indian market but also demonstrates our ability to secure long-term, profitable contracts in key growth markets.”
The drilling campaign will involve drilling three firm wells over a period of 14 months, with an option to extend the contract by a further seven months. This contract, valued at $154 million, aligns with Oil India’s efforts to enhance its domestic hydrocarbon production and reduce reliance on imported energy.
Dolphin Drilling, a leading harsh environment drilling contractor in the offshore oil and gas industry, now operates two semisubmersible rigs on long-term contracts. Alongside the Blackford Dolphin, the Paul B. Loyd, Jr. rig is currently engaged in a firm contract with Harbour Energy in the UK sector until February 2028.
This latest development underscores Dolphin Drilling’s commitment to optimizing its remaining fleet and enhancing operational efficiency. The company’s focus on real-time information and hybrid technologies continues to drive performance improvements, reduce carbon footprints, and ensure high levels of safety across all its assets.
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