Aker BP has obtained approval to drill exploration well 15/6-17 in the Norwegian sector of the North Sea, paving the way for operations at the Svarteknippa prospect in June 2026.

The drilling permit was issued by the Norwegian Offshore Directorate for production license 979. The license was awarded on 1 March 2019 and remains valid until 1 March 2029. The approval follows earlier consent granted by the Norwegian Ocean Industry Authority for exploration drilling in block 15/6.

Under the license structure, Aker BP operates the asset with a 60% interest, while Equinor holds the remaining 40%.

The well is scheduled to be drilled in a water depth of 102 m using Scarabeo 8, a sixth-generation dual-derrick semi-submersible rig owned by Saipem.

Built in 2012, Scarabeo 8 recently secured a contract extension with Aker BP, extending the rig’s work scope with the Norwegian operator into 2028.

The semi-submersible has accommodation capacity for 140 personnel and can drill to depths of up to 10,668 m.