Karoon Energy Ltd has exercised options to add the drilling of up to two wells at the Neon field offshore Brazil to the work scope of the semi-submersible rig Mærsk Developer. The contract extension has a duration of 80 days, in direct continuation of the rig’s previous work scope. The contract extension has a firm contract value of approximately USD 21m.

“We’re delighted to confirm this extension which will expand Mærsk Developer’s activities in Brazil to include assisting Karoon in the further evaluation of the Neon discovery. During our preparations for the initial Baúna work scope, the Developer team has established a strong and close collaboration in our partnership with Karoon, and we’re looking forward to building on that in the Neon campaign,” says Thomas Lysgaard Falk, Head of International Division, Maersk Drilling.

Dr Julian Fowles, Karoon Energy Limited's CEO and Managing Director said: “We are looking forward to the commencement of workover activities on the Baúna field by the Mærsk Developer shortly and are very pleased to have extended our contract to include the planned drilling on Neon subject to the receipt of normal regulatory approvals, which will further consolidate our already strong relationship with the team at Maersk Drilling.”

Mærsk Developer is a DSS-21 column-stabilised dynamically positioned semi-submersible rig, able to operate in water depths up to 10,000 ft. It was delivered in 2009 and is currently preparing for operations offshore Brazil with Karoon Energy Ltd.

About Maersk Drilling

With more than 45 years of experience operating in the most challenging offshore environments, Maersk Drilling (CSE:DRLCO) provides responsible drilling services to energy companies worldwide. Maersk Drilling owns and operates a fleet of 19 offshore drilling rigs and specialises in harsh environment and deepwater operations. Headquartered in Denmark, Maersk Drilling employs around 2,400 people.

About Karoon Energy

Karoon Energy Ltd (Karoon) (ASX:KAR) is a global oil and gas exploration and production company headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, with country offices in Brazil and Peru.