The agreement comes ahead of a series of Wintershall Dea-operated wells to be drilled from the Transocean Norge semi-submersible rig in the coming years.

"Awarding this major contract means we pass another crucial step in preparation for our ambitious drilling programme for the next three years. Having this long-term agreement means we can take advantage of a long-standing relationship with a skilled contractor to ensure we benefit from continuous improvement as we deliver new wells on different assets as One Team," said Nils Petter Norheim, Wintershall Dea Norge, Head of Drilling and Wells.

Between 2023 and 2026, Wintershall Dea plans to drill seven production wells on the Maria and Dvalin North field developments, a new injection well on the Nova field, at least three exploration wells and potentially some appraisal wells for the Luna carbon storage field. The wells will be drilled from the Transocean Norge drilling rig after Wintershall Dea and OMV jointly awarded a contract in September 2022 for exclusive use of the facility.

"It is important to us that we make smart, long-term agreements with contractors now, so we know we have access to high quality personnel in the coming years, when we expect the market is heating up," said Norheim.

"We are thrilled to partner with Wintershall Dea and OMV on this exciting opportunity for integrated well construction and completion services," said Abdou Beloucif, OFSE Europe North Sea Caspian vice president, Baker Hughes. "This frame arrangement reinforces our commitment to delivering high quality solutions and expertise to our customers, and we look forward to supporting Wintershall Dea and OMV in their ambitious drilling program over the next four years and beyond."

Wintershall Dea's agreement with Baker Hughes is initially for four years but can be extended twice for additional two-year periods. OMV has awarded a similar but separate frame agreement to Baker Hughes.