MARCH 26, 2013 – Sembcorp Marine's PPL Shipyard last week won orders from Mexico's Oro Negro to build two more Pacific Class 400 rigs in addition to the two it ordered in November 2012 (see earlier story).

The two latest turnkey contracts are worth $417 million to the shipbuilder, compared with $434 million for the pair ordered last year.

Scheduled for delivery at end of the fourth quarter of 2014 and end of first quarter 2015, the high specifications and high performance deep drilling offshore jack-up rigs will be capable of operating in  waters of 400 feet and drilling high pressure and high temperature wells to depths of 30,000 feet. They will be equipped with accommodations with full catering facilities and amenities for a complement of 150 people on board in one-man and two-man cabins.

Mr. Gonzalo Gil, CEO of Oro Negro, said "We are pleased to have PPL Shipyard as the builder of another two jack-up rigs in our fleet. The first two units currently under construction are progressing well and we are confident that the strong collaboration will continue with the third and fourth jack-up units. Once operational, these high-specification jack-up rigs will further strengthen our rig fleet, positioning Oro Negro as a leading player to capitalize on emerging opportunities within Mexico's growing offshore market."

Mr. Douglas Tan, Managing Director in PPL Shipyard said "We are heartened to be chosen once again by Oro Negro as a partner in their offshore fleet expansion program. The repeat order of two additional Pacific Class 400 jack-ups signals Oro Negro's confidence and endorsement of PPL Shipyard's design capabilities, efficient project execution, and track record for quality and timely deliveries."