A contract for implementing exploratory hydrocarbon drilling in “Block 2” in the northwestern Ionian Sea is being signed at the Ministry of Environment and Energy, marking a critical step for the project’s commencement. The contract is being signed between the ExxonMobil – Energean – HELLENiQ Energy consortium, which holds exploration rights in the area, and Stena Drilling, in the presence of Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou and the ambassadors of the United States, Kimberly Guilfoyle, and Sweden, Håkan Emsgård.
The drilling, under the contract with the ExxonMobil – Energean – HELLENiQ Energy consortium, is scheduled for February 2027 and is expected to be the first in Greek territory after four decades.
The consortium will subsequently present the Drilling Program.
“Stena DrillMAX”: Drilling capabilities
One of the key features of the “Stena DrillMAX” is its ability to operate in ultra-deep waters. It is designed to operate in water depths up to 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) and perform drilling to depths of up to 35,000 feet (over 10 kilometers), allowing access to reserves once considered unreachable.
Its performance is based on advanced technological systems:
• Dynamic positioning (DP3): Uses computer-controlled thrusters to maintain position without anchoring.
• Dual-activity system: Enables simultaneous drilling operations, reducing time and costs, a function known as dual-activity drilling.
• Blowout preventer (BOP): A safety system that controls pressure and seals the wellbore in emergencies, preventing uncontrolled oil or natural gas blowouts. Within the framework of increased environmental sensitivity and compliance with stricter regulations, such technologies are essential.
These features make the vessel capable of operating continuously and safely under challenging conditions.
Size and capabilities
– Length: 228 meters
– Width: 42 meters
– Displacement capacity: approximately 97,000 tons
– Crew: up to 180 people
It also features large storage facilities for fuel and equipment, enabling long-term missions without resupply. It includes power generation systems, heavy crane machinery, specialized drilling equipment, and environmental protection valves.
The “Stena DrillMAX” is the first drilling rig to receive DNV “Abate (P)” certification for emissions reduction and energy efficiency improvement.
