Lukoil to modernize 'Shelf-7'

Russian Lukoil has announced a tender for the upgrade of “Shelf-7” semi-submersible drilling rig currently used in Astrakhan, Russia, as a number of companies have voiced an interest in taking part.

According to Lukoil, after being modernized, the rig will be capable of drilling wells in water depths of over 600 meters. Today, only “Istiglal” SSDR can be used in such drilling.

The upgrade requires some $250 million. It is not ruled out that Azeri enterprises will be involved in the upgrade.

“Shelf-7” used to be a bone of contention between Azerbaijan and Russia.*