Harland and Wolff has been awarded a rig contract.

The work includes the dry docking and Renewal/Special Periodic Survey of the Byford Dolphin Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit (MODU) by Aberdeen-based Dolphin Drilling Limited.

The project is to commence early in 2015.

Harland and Wolff and Dolphin Drilling will implement an integrated project organisation dedicated solely to the successful execution of the project covering the many disciplines, aspects and subcontractors of the scope.

Last in Belfast during 2004/2005, the Aker-H3 design semi-submersible drilling rig will have several major modifications and upgrades, including the fabrication and addition of two new columns and four buoyancy boxes for stability and deck load improvements, fitting of a new larger blow out preventer (BOP) requiring underdeck stiffening and the fabrication and installation of a new BOP control house and installation of new drill string handling equipment.

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The project will also include numerous standard renewal and maintenance scopes of work such as repairs, renewals and refurbishment of pipework, steelwork, anodes, drilling equipment, electrical systems, propulsion machinery and accommodation areas. H&W have already begun a three-month period of pre-fabrication where new steel sections will be constructed in advance of the rig arrival.

Chief Executive Officer, Robert Cooper, said: "We are pleased to continue our investment in the strength, capability and capacity of our Company. The expectations of our customers are of utmost importance to us, and this investment demonstrates our commitment to meeting those expectations."

(CD/JP)