Pemex hunts for 30,000 ft jackup as Gulf drilling race heats up
Mexico’s state energy giant launches tender for high-spec rig capable of 400 ft water depths and 30,000 ft drilling.
Mexico’s state-owned energy company Pemex has initiated an international tender for a high-specification jackup rig to operate in the Gulf of Mexico. The project targets an independent-leg cantilever unit designed for challenging conditions, requiring the ability to work in water depths of at least 400 feet and drill to depths of 30,000 feet. The contract also includes full maintenance of the rig throughout the campaign.
While Pemex has not disclosed key details such as the specific field, number of wells, contract duration, or budget, the tender signals a strategic move to bolster offshore drilling capabilities. The company has set a tight schedule for the selection process, reflecting the urgency of securing a suitable rig.
Timeline and next steps in Pemex’s jackup tender
Interested contractors must submit requests for clarification by September 4. Technical and commercial bids will be reviewed on September 28, with economic offers due on October 2. Pemex aims to finalize the award by October 7, though the lack of public details about the project has left some industry observers cautious.
The tender arrives as Mexico’s offshore sector shows renewed activity. Pemex has historically relied on a large jackup fleet, and recent reports indicate the company has reactivated rigs like Borr Drilling’s Galar, Grid, and Gersemi after earlier suspensions. Meanwhile, independent operators in Mexico are also expanding their fleets, suggesting a potential uptick in drilling beyond Pemex’s traditional dominance. The outcome of this tender could further shape the competitive landscape in the Gulf of Mexico.
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