"We have been predicting offshore rig market consolidation for some ... The move follows by nearly two years Noble's merger with Denmark's Maersk Drilling, a deal valued at more than $3 billion.

The fleet consists of deepwater semisubmersibles, drilling barges and jackup rigs including the world's largest and most advanced harsh environment jackups. With an average age of nine years ...

A second Maersk anchor handling tug supply vessel is due to arrive late this month, and the third rig support ship, a platform supply vessel, will complete the offshore drilling support package ...