Aker BP lets drilling contract for Ivar Aasen field

Aker BP ASA has let a contract to Maersk Drilling Co. for the Maersk Invincible jackup rig to drill three infill wells at Ivar Aasen field, offshore Norway.

The contract has an estimated duration of 86 days and is expected to start in September-October 2022. The contract value is about $22.4 million, excluding integrated services provided and potential performance bonuses.

Maersk Invincible is contracted under the frame agreement that Maersk Drilling and Aker BP entered in 2017 when the Aker BP Jack-up Alliance was established, which also includes Halliburton. An alliance incentive arrangement will apply for the work, based on actual delivery and performance. This contract at Ivar Aasen is not part of the agreement to renew the frame agreement that Maersk Drilling announced on Dec. 18, 2021.

Maersk Invincible is an ultra-harsh environment jackup designed for year-round operations in the North Sea and can operate on shore power. It was delivered in 2016 and is currently operating for Aker BP offshore Norway. Prior to commencing the contract at Ivar Aasen, the rig is scheduled to complete a special periodic survey and undergo hybrid, low-emission upgrades.