On 15 December 2025, Seadrill reported new offshore drilling work in the U.S. Gulf and offshore Angola, extending activity into 2026 and early 2027.
In the U.S. Gulf, drillship West Neptune has been awarded a four-month programme by LLOG Exploration. The work is scheduled to start directly after the rig’s current campaign and is expected to add about $48 million to Seadrill’s overall backlog.
Also in the Gulf, Sevan Louisiana has secured a two-month contract with an undisclosed operator. The job will begin in seamless continuation of its existing contract with Walter Oil and Gas, avoiding idle time between campaigns. The programme will include the first deployment of Trendsetter well-intervention equipment in this area, widening the rig’s operational scope.
Offshore Angola, a previously awarded five-well option has been exercised for the drillship Sonangol Quenguela. The additional wells are expected to keep the unit working for around 10 more months, committing it through February 2027. Sonangol Quenguela is operating in partnership with Sonangol.
Simon Johnson, president and CEO of Seadrill, said the latest awards underline the company’s ability to secure follow-on work and keep utilisation high in a challenging market. He added that the contracts represent continued progress in building backlog and in maintaining relationships with repeat customers.
Seadrill said the new work keeps its fleet engaged in deepwater projects, particularly in areas such as the U.S. Gulf and offshore West Africa, as operators move ahead with development and intervention programmes.