Keppel FELS on track for on-time delivery of ENSCO 8504

Singapore’s Keppel FELS shipyard reports that is on track to deliver ENSCO 8504, the fifth of seven ENSCO 8500 Series ultra-deepwater semisubmersible drilling rigs being built exclusively for Ensco plc (NYSE: ESV). The proprietary ENSCO 8500 design can drilling in up to 8,500 feet of water, and can be upgraded to 10,000 feet water-depth capability if required. The design includes a 35,000 ft nominal rated drilling depth, six ram BOP, two million pound quad derrick, 8,000 tons of variable deck load and an open layout well suited for subsea completion activities. Improved visibility from the open deck configuration also enhances safety.

Keppel FELS expects to deliver the rig on time, within budget and with no lost time incidents. ENSCO 8504 has been contracted to TOTAL E&P Deep Offshore Borneo B.V. for deployment in Brunei.

The rig was named at Keppel FELS today by sponsor, Mrs. Maika Grosjean, in the presence of Guest-of-Honor, Mr. Teo Ser Luck, Singapore’s Minister of State for Trade and Industry.

Mr. Daniel W. Rabun, Ensco’s Chairman, President & CEO, said, “Our ENSCO 8500 Series rigs built by Keppel FELS have been very well received by the market. These ultra-deepwater rigs increase our offerings to customers including our newest, TOTAL in Brunei.

“Keppel FELS has been a key partner for Ensco as we grew to become the world’s second largest offshore drilling contractor. Over the years, we have entrusted Keppel with 11 jack-up rigs and seven semisubmersibles. They have been our partner of choice in providing high quality products in a safe and efficient manner, on time and within budget.”

Mr. Tong Chong Heong, CEO of Keppel O&M, said, “We are pleased to support Ensco with their newbuilding programme as they grow their fleet of highly-capable rigs. Having built 14 rigs for Ensco including this latest semisubmersible, with four more on order, we have developed an understanding and trust that has enabled us to deliver successive projects more efficiently and in a safer manner.

“We work closely with our customers to provide innovative and cost-effective solutions for the market. Besides the remaining two ENSCO 8500 rigs, we also are constructing two ultra-premium harsh environment jackup rigs for Ensco modeled after our proprietary KFELS Super A Class design. We are committed to delivering these high-specification offshore rigs to the highest satisfaction of our faithful customer, Ensco.”

June 18, 2011