The drilling contract for Block 2 in the Northwestern Ionian will be signed tomorrow, April 15, in the presence of Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou, marking a decisive step towards the first exploratory drilling in the country after almost half a century. This specific action is achieved within the framework of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ national plan to strengthen the country’s energy security and develop the hydrocarbon sector.
The drilling contract will be signed by the ExxonMobil – Energean – HELLENiQ Energy consortium and Stena Drilling company, followed by the consortium’s presentation of the Drilling Program. The event will also be attended by the ambassadors of the United States, Ms. Kimberly Guilfoyle, and Sweden, Mr. Håkan Emsgård.
The consortium, in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment and Energy, is proceeding with the rapid implementation of exploratory drilling in February 2027, using the Stena DrillMAX. The Stena DrillMAX is a 6th generation drill ship, built in 2007 by Samsung Heavy Industries and operated by Stena Drilling company. It belongs to the DrillMAX series, a group of high-specification vessels designed to push the limits of offshore drilling.
Stena DrillMAX: Advanced drilling capabilities
One of the key features of the Stena DrillMAX is its ability to operate in ultra-deepwater. It has been 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 deposits once considered unreachable.
Its performance is based on advanced technological systems:
• Dynamic positioning (DP3): Uses computer-controlled propellers to maintain position without anchoring.
• Dual-activity system: Enables simultaneous drilling operations, reducing time and costs through dual-activity drilling functionality.
• Blowout preventer (BOP): Safety system that controls pressure and seals the well in emergencies, preventing uncontrolled oil or natural gas blowouts. In the context of increased environmental sensitivity and stricter regulations, such technologies are essential.
These features enable the vessel to operate 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-duration 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 vessel to receive DNV “Abate (P)” certification for emissions reduction and improved energy efficiency.
