CIMC Raffles has started sea trials for the ultra-deepwater drilling rig Blue Whale II, following the completion equipment testing.
The sea trials are expected to last for three weeks. Designed to operate in water depths of 3658m and drill to depths of up to 15,240m, the rig accommodates a dual activity drilling package.
The Frigstad D90 design unit is equipped with a dynamic positioning 3 system.
Its sister rig, Blue Whale I, has just finished drilling its first successful deepwater well for methane hydrate in the South China Sea.
Image from CIMC Raffles.
