Italy’s Saipem has announced that it has won two new contracts in offshore drilling in Norway and the Middle East worth over $200 million.

According to the statement, one of the contracts was signed with the German company, Wintershall for the drilling of two wells and two optional ones in continuity with previous engagements for operations offshore in Norway. The contract will be executed by the sixth-generation semi-submersible rig Scarabeo 8, which is capable of drilling in harsh climates, it stated.

Saipem added that with this contract, it consolidates its presence in the North Sea- Norwegian Sector and extends its client base in offshore drilling to a new important player. The rig is expected to be under operation until the second quarter of 2020, approximately.

The other contract received is in the Middle East and involves a four-year extension of the use of the high specs Perro Negro 7. It is a self-elevating drilling unit capable of operating in water depths up to 114m. Work commenced at the end of the first quarter, the company stated.

Saipem added that such long-term commitments strengthens its presence in key areas of shallow water operations and in a strategic market for the company overall.