The ENSCO 8500 Series deepwater semisubmersibles are enhanced versions of ENSCO 7500 and are based on an ENSCO proprietary design. Enhancements include a two-million-lb quad derrick, offline pipe handling capability, increased drilling capacity, improved automatic station keeping ability and larger living quarters. The 8500 Series rigs will be capable of drilling in up to 8,500 ft of water.
Daniel W Rabun, ENSCO chairman, president and CEO, said, “We expect demand for ultra-deepwater equipment will continue to grow, and that expansion of our 8500 Series deepwater fleet offers an attractive opportunity to participate in this important market.”
