Seadrill JV nets two Angola contracts

Seadrill’s joint venture, Sonadrill, has announced significant new contracts in Angola, marking a robust expansion in the region’s drilling activities. The company has secured agreements for two of its drillships, with operations set to commence in the coming years. This development underscores the growing demand for offshore drilling services in Angola’s oil sector.

Details of the New Contracts

The West Gemini, a drillship owned by Seadrill, has been contracted by Sonangol Exploração & Produção. This contract is anticipated to begin in late 2025 or early 2026 and is expected to last approximately 284 days. This engagement highlights Seadrill’s ongoing collaboration with Sonangol, a key player in Angola’s oil industry.

Seadrill rig pair hired for drilling programs in the US Gulf of Mexico

In addition, the Sonangol Libongos has been secured by Azule Energy Angola for a project slated to start in the third quarter of 2025. This contract will follow the vessel’s current commitments and is set for a duration of 525 days, with options for further extensions beyond the initial agreement. Such long-term contracts indicate a strong confidence in the operational capabilities of the Sonadrill joint venture.

Sonadrill operates three drillships under a bareboat charter arrangement: the West Gemini, Sonangol Libongos, and Sonangol Quenguela. The joint venture is a 50:50 partnership between Seadrill and Sonangol, with Seadrill providing essential management, operational, and technical support, earning fees for these services. This strategic collaboration is poised to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of drilling operations in Angola, contributing to the region’s energy sector growth.