TNK-BP launches $2 billion rig tender

Aug. 3, 2007
TNK-BP is seeking as many as 60 dedicated drilling rigs in tenders valued at more than $2 billion. The rigs will be used to maintain output from mature oil and gas fields in eastern Siberia and to prepare for new production in 2008.

Uchenna Izundu
International Editor

LONDON, Aug. 3 -- TNK-BP is seeking as many as 60 dedicated drilling rigs in tenders valued at more than $2 billion. The rigs will be used to maintain output from mature oil and gas fields in eastern Siberia and to prepare for new production in 2008.

TNK-BP wants to lease rigs for as long as 5 years, with options to extend.

"Contractors will be requested to tender advanced rig designs which utilize upgraded, efficient, and environmentally friendlier operating systems and equipment," TNK-BP said.

TNK-BP wants to lease drilling rigs with variable speed drives, mechanical pipe-handling equipment, and triplex mud pumps. Those tendered should have improved HSE features, including a smaller footprint, energy-efficient equipment, environmentally advanced mud systems with reduced fluid discharge, and systems that reduce personnel exposure to safety risks.

More than 20 companies have prequalified to participate in the tender; two thirds of them are Russian. The winners will be informed in October, and rigs are to be in place in January 2008.

TNK-BP described the long-term rig tender as the largest in the Russian industry.

Contact Uchenna Izundu at [email protected]