Saipem’s 6th generation semi-submersible rig Scarabeo 9 has commenced drilling operations in Block 16/4 offshore Libya, marking the resumption of exploration activity in the region.
The campaign involves re-entering the C1-16/4 exploration well, which was initially spudded by Eni in 2020 before being suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Drilling has now resumed to complete the well and evaluate its potential results.
Before its redeployment to Libya, Scarabeo 9 had been operating for Burullus in Egypt’s Mediterranean waters, where its previous contract concluded in August 2025. Following completion, the rig was mobilized to Libyan waters to support Eni’s renewed exploration program.
This operation marks a key step in Libya’s ongoing efforts to revitalize offshore exploration and reinforces Saipem’s long-standing role as a leading offshore drilling contractor in the Mediterranean region.
