Shell Plc., one of the world’s largest integrated energy companies, has completed its offshore drilling campaign in Namibia, with the Deepsea Mira rig now heading to Walvis Bay for planned upgrades and modifications before its next assignment.

The sixth-generation semi-submersible drilling unit completed its contract on July 2, 2026, after beginning operations on April 4. Shell decided not to exercise an option for a second exploration well, bringing the programme to an end after a single-well campaign.

The development comes as Namibia continues to attract global attention from major energy companies seeking opportunities in one of Africa’s fastest-emerging offshore oil and gas markets.

Northern Ocean prepares rig for new global contracts

The Deepsea Mira, owned by Northern Ocean Ltd. and managed by Odfjell Drilling, will undergo scheduled maintenance, upgrades and technical modifications at Walvis Bay before returning to the international drilling market.

Northern Ocean said it is actively marketing the offshore rig for future contracts and remains optimistic about demand for high-specification drilling units capable of operating in challenging environments.

Based on current market conditions, the company expects the Deepsea Mira to secure a new contract during the second half of 2026. The move highlights growing demand for advanced offshore drilling technology as energy companies expand exploration activities in regions with significant untapped resources.

Deepsea Mira built for harsh offshore environments

The Deepsea Mira is a world-class dynamically positioned and anchor-moored semi-submersible drilling and service unit designed by Moss Maritime CS60E.

The sixth-generation rig is engineered to operate in both moderate and harsh offshore environments, including cold climate conditions. It features winterisation capabilities, advanced drilling systems and a full conventional mooring spread designed for water depths between 70 and 500 metres.

The rig is equipped with a high-performance Aker MH derrick, supporting advanced drilling operations, offline dynamic positioning, stand-building and casing activities. Its technology platform makes it suitable for complex exploration campaigns where reliability, safety and operational efficiency are critical.

Shell maintains focus on global energy markets

Shell Plc is a global energy and petrochemicals company with more than five decades of operations in Nigeria and a presence across more than 70 countries.

Headquartered in London, Shell employs about 93,000 people worldwide and operates across multiple energy segments, including deepwater exploration, liquefied natural gas (LNG), industrial gas distribution and renewable energy solutions.

The company remains focused on meeting global energy demand while pursuing lower-carbon solutions and maintaining operational efficiency across its international portfolio.

Namibia’s offshore sector has become a major investment destination following significant discoveries and increased exploration interest from international energy companies, positioning the country as a potential future energy hub in Africa.