New rig job bolsters Axess’ relationship with Noble

March 9, 2026, by Melisa Cavcic

Norway-headquartered asset integrity management company Axess Group has secured a new drillship assignment, which builds on its existing relationship with the U.S.-based offshore drilling player Noble Corporation in the Southeast Asia (SEA) region.

Noble Viking drillship; Source: Noble Corporation

The Norwegian firm claims to have expanded its affiliation with Noble in Southeast Asia through an asset integrity management (AIM) contract. As a result, Axess Asia will be deploying a multi-skilled rotation team onboard the Noble Viking drillship.

Farhan Hussin, Business Development Manager – Asia at Axess Group, commented: “We are pleased to continue our affiliation with Noble. By leveraging a proven rotational model and established inspection methodology, we will ensure continuity, consistent quality, and minimal disruption to operations.

“Our digitally-enabled AIM solutions will streamline reporting readiness and provide clear inspection data for operational and maintenance planning.”

Axess Group explains that its team will carry out a range of inspection services to support the safe and continuous operation of the rig in the Philippines, Brunei, Papua New Guinea, and Malaysia.

The 2013-built Noble Viking drillship can accommodate 230 people. With a maximum drilling depth of 40,000 feet, the rig can work in water depths of 12,000 feet.

Noble drillship going to Philippines for offshore drilling campaign

Project & Tenders

The contract is structured around the firm’s total rig integrity management (TRIM) framework, described as an integrated solution that maximises value and uptime by consolidating activities and deploying multi-skilled teams.

This approach is interpreted to lower the carbon footprint and improve cost transparency, by reducing the frequency of mobilisations and minimising personnel on board.

The Norwegian company has a long-standing cooperation with Noble, including an existing long-term contract in Guyana.