Transocean, a prominent offshore drilling contractor based in Switzerland, recently commenced operations in Brazil with its newly built ultra-deepwater drillship, the Deepwater Aquila. This milestone marked the beginning of its inaugural drilling assignment in partnership with Petrobras, Brazil’s state-owned energy giant.
The drillship was acquired through a $200 million purchase agreement from Hanwha Ocean, formerly known as the West Aquila, originally built by Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME).
To finance the acquisition, construction, and enhancements of the seventh-generation ultra-deepwater rig, Transocean initiated a private offering of senior secured notes due in 2028. This strategic move underpinned its expansion efforts in the offshore drilling sector. The Deepwater Aquila is part of a two-rig order initially placed by Seadrill in 2013, adding to Transocean’s extensive fleet of advanced drillships.
Transocean Launches Deepwater Aquila for Inaugural Brazil Operations
Scheduled for delivery from the shipyard in October 2023, the Deepwater Aquila secured a significant three-year contract with Petrobras in September 2024.
This contract, valued at $448,000 per day, positioned the drillship for operations from June 2024 to June 2027, solidifying its role in Brazil’s offshore energy sector. Transocean celebrated the commencement of operations, emphasizing the rig’s readiness and the collaborative efforts behind its deployment.
In parallel with its Brazilian venture, Transocean optimized its fleet by divesting a stacked ultra-deepwater floater and securing a lucrative contract extension in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico with Hess Corporation. This strategic realignment aimed to bolster its core fleet assets while maximizing operational efficiencies and market opportunities in key global regions.
