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.

DNV has been contracted to class the Eastern Drilling 1 semi-submersible drilling rig at the Samsung Heavy Industry (SHI) yard in Korea. DNV will be responsible for the total contract and the site supervision, as well as 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.