A Saipem-owned rig has arrived in Namibia to support Rhino Resources Ltd. as the company moves ahead with appraisal drilling in the Orange Basin.

Rhino Resources has contracted the Saipem 12000 drillship for the Capricornus-1A appraisal well in Block 2914, which is covered by Petroleum Exploration License 85 offshore Namibia.

The appraisal program follows confirmation of a high-quality light oil-bearing reservoir at the Capricornus discovery. The well is expected to test the extension of the discovery and help assess the size of the accumulation, reservoir quality and fluid characteristics within Lower Cretaceous targets.

Rhino Resources operates PEL 85 with a 42.5% interest. Its partners are Azule Energy with 42.5%, NAMCOR with 10%, and Korres Investments with 5%.

The arrival of the Saipem 12000 supports a multi-well drilling campaign in the Orange Basin, where Rhino Resources is continuing its evaluation of the Capricornus light oil discovery.