ABS to class new jack-up drilling units for Silver Eagle

ABS, a global classification provider, will provide a classification for a series of self-elevating drilling units (SEDU) for Silver Eagle Global.

Silver Eagle says the self-propelled design is capable of working at greater water depths and in harsh environments and also that the series will have the industry’s largest deck area and deck load capacity, a cantilever with modular design and a high-speed jacking system.

Matthew Tremblay, Senior Vice President, Global Offshore, said: “These unique units offer the flexibility to adapt to the mission and payload. The large deck and cantilever are innovative design features, while self-propulsion and the four legs allows the vessel to get on the job site independently. These unique design features of the Silver Eagle units will bring a new level of versatility for the offshore industry”.

According to ABS, the initial contract calls for two rigs with an option for an additional two. It is anticipated that a series of similarly designed SEDU’s will follow after the initial builds.

Silver Eagle has contracted PetroVietnam Marine Shipyard to build the units.

Ronald Sanders, Silver Eagle Executive Chairman, said: “It is a great privilege to announce the start of a new era for the offshore oil and gas industry, with the highly efficient design of the Silver Eagle SEDU 430WC-4. We believe this design will provide a cost-effective solution for the offshore energy industry in all cycles of commodity prices”.