What is Dynamic Positioning (DP) technology in offshore drilling?

Dynamic Positioning (DP) technology allows offshore vessels, such as drilling rigs, to maintain a precise position and heading automatically using their own thrusters and propellers. It is crucial for deepwater drilling where anchoring is not feasible, ensuring the rig stays exactly over the wellbore despite currents, wind, and waves.

What are the expected benefits of this 'next-generation remote DP tech'?

The next-generation remote DP technology aims to enhance operational efficiency, precision, and safety in offshore drilling. By enabling remote control, it can reduce the need for extensive onboard personnel, potentially lowering operational costs, improving response times, and minimizing human exposure to hazardous offshore environments.

Who are the key players in this alliance and what roles do they bring?

The alliance comprises Seadrill, an offshore drilling contractor providing the operational context and potential testing platforms; Kongsberg Maritime, a technology specialist bringing its expertise in maritime automation and control systems; and Hanwha Drilling, a provider of offshore drilling services, contributing insights into drilling operations and service integration.

Offshore Energy · March 4, 2026 (Mar 4) · 1 min read

Seadrill, Kongsberg Maritime, and Hanwha set on ushering in next gen remote DP tech for offshore drilling

Analysis

OilCyprus Editorial

An alliance has been formed between offshore drilling contractor Seadrill, technology specialist Kongsberg Maritime, and offshore drilling services provider Hanwha Drilling to advance remote dynamic positioning (DP) technology. This collaboration aims to set new industry benchmarks for precision and efficiency in offshore drilling operations. The initiative signifies a strategic move towards greater automation and enhanced operational control from onshore locations, potentially transforming how drilling activities are managed globally.

Key Facts

Seadrill, an offshore drilling contractor, is a key participant in the new technology alliance.
Kongsberg Maritime, a technology provider, is contributing its expertise to the development of remote dynamic positioning systems.
Hanwha Drilling, an offshore drilling services provider, completes the three-party collaboration.
The alliance's primary objective is to develop the next generation of remote dynamic positioning (DP) technology.
This technological advancement is intended to establish new operational standards for the offshore drilling sector.
The collaboration focuses on enhancing the precision and efficiency of offshore drilling operations through remote control capabilities.

Background & Context

Dynamic Positioning (DP) systems have been critical for offshore drilling rigs for decades, enabling vessels to maintain a precise position without anchors, crucial for deepwater operations. The industry has consistently sought to enhance safety, reduce operational costs, and improve efficiency through technological innovation. This drive has led to increasing automation and the exploration of remote operational capabilities, building on advancements seen in other maritime and industrial sectors.

Market Impact

This alliance's focus on next-generation remote DP technology signals a significant shift towards more automated and potentially less human-intensive offshore drilling operations. The development could lead to substantial improvements in operational safety by reducing personnel exposure to hazardous environments and enhancing precision in station-keeping. Furthermore, it promises greater efficiency through optimized control and potentially lower operational expenditures, offering a competitive edge to early adopters and setting a new standard for the broader drilling industry.

What to Watch

The immediate outlook involves the collaborative development and rigorous testing phases for this advanced remote DP technology. Industry stakeholders should anticipate pilot projects on Seadrill's fleet or Hanwha's operations, which will demonstrate the system's capabilities and reliability. Successful implementation will likely trigger broader industry adoption and potentially influence regulatory frameworks for remote offshore operations in the coming years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dynamic Positioning (DP) technology in offshore drilling?: Dynamic Positioning (DP) technology allows offshore vessels, such as drilling rigs, to maintain a precise position and heading automatically using their own thrusters and propellers. It is crucial for deepwater drilling where anchoring is not feasible, ensuring the rig stays exactly over the wellbore despite currents, wind, and waves.
What are the expected benefits of this 'next-generation remote DP tech'?: The next-generation remote DP technology aims to enhance operational efficiency, precision, and safety in offshore drilling. By enabling remote control, it can reduce the need for extensive onboard personnel, potentially lowering operational costs, improving response times, and minimizing human exposure to hazardous offshore environments.
Who are the key players in this alliance and what roles do they bring?: The alliance comprises Seadrill, an offshore drilling contractor providing the operational context and potential testing platforms; Kongsberg Maritime, a technology specialist bringing its expertise in maritime automation and control systems; and Hanwha Drilling, a provider of offshore drilling services, contributing insights into drilling operations and service integration.

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