29 Jul 1999

AMFELS to build US$100 million semi-submersible

AMFELS Inc., the US-based subsidiary of Keppel FELS Limited, has won a contract to build the unique ultra-deepwater semi-submersible multi-purpose vessel, Q4000 for Cal Dive International, Inc.

This Q4000 ultra-deepwater multi-service vessel, valued at US$100 million, will have a unique column-stabilized design that combines excellent station-keeping capability with a large deck space, significant deckload capacity and high transit speed. It will be configured to work in deepwater environments. The vessel delivery is anticipated before mid 2001.

When completed, the vessel will be capable of working in water depths of up to 10,000 feet and will be equipped to perform multi-functions and is particularly suited to carry out complex construction tasks and well servicing functions in extreme depths.

The vessel will be US flag registered, classed and built to the latest ABS and US Coast Guard requirements, as well as to international rules and regulations.

AMFELS is one of the leading shipyards for the offshore oil and gas and marine industry located in Texas, USA. It recently commissioned the first of two Super 116 Class jack-up rigs for Chiles Offshore and will be delivering the second rig shortly.

The Keppel FELS Group is a world leader in the construction of jack-ups rigs, building more than 50% of the world’s jack-ups on order. Keppel FELS specializes in the construction of highly sophisticated vessels including jack-ups, semi-submersibles, Floating Production, Storage and Offloading vessels for customers globally. In 1999, Keppel FELS completed the construction of Stena Tay, a deepwater semi-submersible drilling rig. Galaxy II, the world’s second KFELS MOD VI jack-up for Santa Fe International, was delivered in August 1998 while Galaxy III is expected to be delivered shortly. The Group is also engaged in the fields of energy and infrastructure development.