DNV has been contracted to class the new 6th generation semi-submersible drilling rig. When complete in 2007, Eastern Drilling 1 will be the largest of its kind ever built.

The Eastern Drilling 1 will be the biggest and most advanced semi-submersible rig ever built. Designed by Moss Maritime, the rig will be operated by Smedvig in harsh-environment areas.

DNV has been contracted to class the Eastern Drilling 1 semi-submersible drilling rig at the Samsung Heavy Industry (SHI) yard in Korea. DNV Maritime will be responsible for the total contract and the site supervision, and DNV Technology Services will be responsible for the approval and project management in the first phase of the project.

The rig is designed with dual derrick and an advanced dynamic positioning system. The operator, Smedvig, will employ the rig in harsh-environment areas. It will be capable of drilling to 3.000 meters.

Construction work at Samsung is scheduled to start in March 2006. The contract between Eastern Drilling and Samsung includes an option to build an identical unit.