The subsea drilling systems industry centers on technologies and services essential for offshore oil and gas exploration. Companies here design and manufacture drilling rigs, subsea wellheads, and support vessels. As demand for energy grows, these firms are shifting focus toward sustainable practices, investing in clean energy initiatives, and improving environmental standards. Innovations in technology, including automation and advanced materials, are paving the way for safer and more efficient exploration. With deepwater and ultra-deepwater drilling becoming more common, this sector is set for significant growth, driven by continued investments in subsea capabilities and operational excellence.


This list features 22 subsea drilling systems companies varying in size from small firms to large industry leaders, headquartered in locations across the globe including Norway, the United States, and Brazil. Founded between the late 1970s and 2021, these companies specialize in drilling services, engineering solutions, and offshore infrastructure. Their collective proficiency in innovative techniques aids both mature and emerging markets, adapting to the ever-changing energy landscape. With a focus on sustainability and efficiency, these firms are positioned to meet industry demands while contributing to advancements in deep-water exploration and production.


Read on to discover detailed insights about the top subsea drilling systems companies.


Top 22 Subsea Drilling Systems Companies


1. Yantai CIMC Raffles Offshore Ltd.


Yantai CIMC Raffles Offshore Ltd. is a prominent shipbuilding and offshore engineering company based in Yantai, Shandong, China. Founded in 1977, the company has carved out a niche in the oil and gas sector, focusing on the design and construction of drilling rigs, production units, and specialized vessels. CIMC Raffles serves a global clientele, providing advanced engineering solutions tailored for offshore exploration and production. Their product offerings include semi-submersible platforms and jack-up rigs, which are critical for subsea drilling operations. The company emphasizes innovation, having secured numerous patents and awards for their technological advancements. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their projects aimed at supporting renewable energy initiatives, further solidifying their role in the energy industry.


2. Petrolog Group

  • Website: petrologgroup.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: Nigeria 66%, Angola 21%, United States (USA) 10%, Other 3%
  • Founded year: 1983
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: petrolog-limited

Petrolog Group, established in 1983 and based in Houston, Texas, is an oilfield services company that specializes in integrated petroleum services. The company operates primarily in the oil and gas sector, providing essential services such as drilling, engineering, and subsea solutions. With a workforce that is significantly distributed across Nigeria and Angola, Petrolog Group has a strong presence in the African market, which is crucial for its operations. The company has developed expertise in various drilling techniques, including conventional drilling, workovers, and well completions, and is equipped to handle complex offshore drilling projects. Their fleet includes advanced diving support vessels and they are involved in subsea pipelay installation, showcasing their capabilities in underwater operations. Petrolog Group is committed to optimizing production and managing operations safely and efficiently, making them a notable player in the subsea drilling industry.


3. DeepOcean

  • Website: deepoceangroup.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
  • Employee distribution: Norway 65%, United Kingdom (UK) 19%, Mexico 6%, Other 10%
  • Latest funding: November 2016
  • Founded year: 1993
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: deepocean

DeepOcean, established in 1993 and headquartered in Oslo, Norway, is a private equity-backed ocean services provider specializing in subsea operations. The company operates across various sectors, including oil and gas, offshore renewables, and ocean minerals. DeepOcean offers a full lifecycle of services, from hydrographic surveys and engineering to project management, installation, maintenance, and recycling of subsea infrastructures. With a workforce of over 1,500 employees, they leverage advanced technology and a commitment to sustainability to support clients in navigating the energy transition. Their operations are bolstered by a strong emphasis on reducing carbon footprints and enhancing operational efficiency. DeepOcean has also expanded its capabilities through strategic acquisitions, enhancing its service offerings in the subsea sector.


4. COSL Drilling Europe AS

  • Website: cosl.no
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Sandnes, Rogaland, Norway
  • Employee distribution: Norway 59%, United Kingdom (UK) 31%, New Zealand 2%, Other 8%
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: cosl-drilling-europe-as

COSL Drilling Europe AS, established in 2005 and headquartered in Sandnes, Norway, is a private drilling contractor that specializes in low-emission drilling services for the oil and gas industry. The company operates a fleet of semi-submersible drilling rigs, including the COSLPioneer, COSLInnovator, COSLPromoter, and COSLProspector, which are designed for operations in harsh environments, particularly in the North Sea. COSL Drilling Europe is committed to the energy transition, aiming to provide climate-neutral drilling services by 2025. Their innovative Energy Control Systems have already achieved significant reductions in CO2 and NOx emissions. The company has a strong safety culture and adheres to various international standards, including ISO 14001 and ISO 50001, ensuring high operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. COSL Drilling Europe has been actively involved in drilling operations across Norway, the UK, and other regions, maintaining a solid reputation in the industry.


5. Oil States Industries

  • Website: oilstates.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Arlington, Texas, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 44%, United Kingdom (UK) 11%, Indonesia 11%, Other 34%
  • Founded year: 1942
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: oil-states-industries

Oil States Industries, based in Arlington, Texas, is a private energy solutions provider that has been active since 1942. The company specializes in systems and services for the oil and gas industry, focusing on production platform systems, riser systems, and subsea pipeline solutions. Their product range includes tension leg platforms, semi-submersibles, and fixed platforms, which are crucial for offshore operations. Oil States also offers a variety of services, including riser analysis, welding engineering, and inspection and maintenance, ensuring that their clients receive comprehensive support throughout the lifecycle of their projects. With a workforce of approximately 1,370 employees and a global presence, Oil States Industries serves a wide array of clients in the energy sector, emphasizing reliability and efficiency in their solutions.


6. NuStar Technologies Pte Ltd


NuStar Technologies Pte Ltd, founded in 2012 and based in Singapore, is an engineering firm that specializes in drilling and production solutions, particularly in the subsea domain. The company provides a range of services including project management, consultancy, and manufacturing, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency for clients in the oil and gas industry. Their product offerings include subsea wellhead systems, subsea trees, and various rig equipment, which are critical for subsea drilling operations. NuStar has successfully executed numerous projects, demonstrating their capability in delivering effective engineering solutions. The firm is also committed to sustainability, focusing on initiatives such as carbon capture and subsea mineral extraction. With a dedicated team and a strong track record, NuStar Technologies is positioned to address the challenges of modern subsea drilling and production.


7. Hmh

  • Website: hmhw.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Employee distribution: Norway 28%, United States (USA) 25%, Brazil 20%, Other 27%
  • Founded year: 2021
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: hmhw

HMH, established in 2021 and based in Amsterdam, is a drilling solutions provider with a workforce of approximately 1,249 employees. The company specializes in equipment and services tailored for the oil and gas, mining, and construction sectors. HMH offers a comprehensive range of products, including drilling equipment, digital solutions, and training services. Their expertise extends to both onshore and offshore drilling, with a notable focus on subsea mining and construction applications. HMH's commitment to innovation is evident in their development of advanced digital solutions and automation technologies, which enhance operational efficiency and safety. The company serves a global clientele, with significant employee distribution in Norway, the USA, Brazil, India, and the UK, reflecting their international reach and operational capabilities.


8. Diavaz Oficial


Diavaz Oficial, founded in 1973, is a family-owned oil and gas service company based in Mexico. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, Diavaz specializes in providing comprehensive solutions for the energy sector, focusing on both offshore and terrestrial oil operations. The company offers a wide array of services, including maintenance, drilling, and gas distribution, ensuring operational efficiency and asset integrity for its clients. Diavaz has built a reputation for its expertise in marine services, particularly in the inspection, maintenance, and repair of offshore structures and facilities. They have also engaged in significant projects involving the operation of oil fields, showcasing their capability in exploration and production. Their commitment to quality and safety is underscored by certifications from various industry organizations, including the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) and Bureau Veritas. Diavaz's strategic alliances with national and international partners further enhance its service offerings and technological capabilities.


9. Vrv Subsea & Drilling Repair

  • Website: vrvservicos.com.br
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Tamoios, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
  • Employee distribution: Brazil 100%
  • Founded year: 2007
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: vrv-servi%c3%a7os

Vrv Subsea & Drilling Repair, founded in 2007 and based in Tamoios, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a private company dedicated to the oil and gas industry. With a workforce of approximately 131 employees, the company specializes in a range of services including inspection, maintenance, repair, and manufacturing of drilling equipment. Their expertise is particularly focused on subsea operations, where they provide essential services that enhance the safety and efficiency of drilling activities. Vrv has developed proprietary technologies, such as the Eco Packer and the hydraulic disconnect funnel, which are designed to optimize drilling processes and reduce operational downtime. The company prides itself on its commitment to quality, ensuring that all operations comply with relevant industry standards. Their client base includes major oil and gas companies, reflecting their capability to meet the rigorous demands of the sector. Vrv's ongoing investments in technology and employee training underscore their dedication to continuous improvement and innovation in the oil and gas field.


10. Grup Servicii Petroliere

  • Website: gspoffshore.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Constanța, Constanța, Romania
  • Employee distribution: Romania 100%
  • Founded year: 2004
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: grup-servicii-petroliere

Grup Servicii Petroliere SA, based in Constanța, Romania, is a private offshore service provider established in 2004. The company specializes in integrated services for the oil and gas industry, offering a comprehensive suite of solutions that includes offshore drilling, construction, subsea installation, and engineering. GSP operates a fleet that consists of eight mobile offshore drilling rigs and multiple support vessels, enabling them to undertake complex projects in challenging marine environments. Their services extend to subsea operations, including diving and survey services, which are critical for offshore construction and drilling support. GSP has built a reputation for quality and safety, adhering to international standards and certifications. The company is also a member of key industry associations, reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence and industry best practices.


11. AKOFS Offshore


AKOFS Offshore, founded in 2007 and based in Oslo, Norway, is a private offshore service company that specializes in subsea well construction and intervention services tailored for the oil and gas industry. With a workforce of approximately 229 employees, the company operates primarily in Brazil and Norway, reflecting a significant presence in key markets. AKOFS Offshore provides engineering solutions and support to major clients, including Petrobras and Equinor, focusing on efficient and environmentally sustainable operations in challenging underwater environments. Their fleet includes advanced vessels like the AKOFS Seafarer and Aker Wayfarer, which are equipped for deepwater operations and have been instrumental in the installation of subsea systems. The company has successfully completed over 400 installations of tubing head spools and has pioneered the installation of heavy manifolds in ultra-deep waters. AKOFS Offshore's commitment to reducing CO2 emissions and enhancing operational efficiency is evident in their recent investments in hybrid battery systems, which aim to lower fuel consumption and emissions during well operations.


12. IKM Testing AS

  • Website: ikm.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Norway
  • Employee distribution: Norway 98%, Other 2%
  • Latest funding: September 2022
  • Founded year: 1992
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: ikm-testing-as

IKM Testing AS, part of the IKM Group, is a Norwegian company established in 1992. It operates primarily in the energy sector, providing essential services that include engineering, maintenance, and operational support for both subsea and topside projects. The company caters mainly to clients in the oil and gas industry, offering specialized expertise that enhances energy production and management. IKM Testing AS is particularly noted for its subsea field development services, which involve engineering support, project management, and ROV services. Their commitment to operational excellence is reflected in their extensive range of services, which also includes well intervention and pressure control equipment. With a workforce of around 452 employees, the company maintains a strong presence in Norway, where 98% of its operations are based. IKM Testing AS has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model without reliance on external financial support.


13. Five Star Services


Five Star Services, founded in 1997 and based in Brazil, is a private company that operates within the oil and gas sector. With a workforce of approximately 368 employees, the company provides a range of specialized services aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and safety in drilling and subsea operations. Their offerings include manpower solutions, engineering services, and maintenance support, particularly for subsea equipment and drilling systems. The company has a strong emphasis on safety and quality, employing highly trained professionals and advanced technologies to meet the needs of their clients. Their subsea team is equipped to handle various tasks, including maintenance of blowout preventers and riser systems, showcasing their commitment to supporting the subsea drilling industry. Five Star Services has established a reputation for reliability and expertise in the Brazilian oil market, contributing to the operational success of their clients.


14. Trident Group

  • Website: trident-gp.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Moscow, Moscow, Russia
  • Employee distribution: Russia 78%, Ukraine 22%
  • Latest funding: July 2006
  • Founded year: 2007
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: trident-yug

Trident Group, founded in 2007 and based in Moscow, Russia, is a corporate entity specializing in offshore drilling and marine engineering services. The company provides integrated project management, geological surveys, and a range of support services tailored for the oil and gas sector. With a workforce of approximately 51-200 employees, Trident Group has established itself as a competent player in the industry. Their expertise includes subsea operations, conductor driving, well testing, and soil excavation, which are vital for successful offshore drilling projects. Trident Group has been involved in various significant projects, such as the construction of exploratory wells in the Kara Sea and the installation of subsea cables in the Caspian Sea. Their commitment to safety and operational efficiency is evident in their HSE policy and project execution. The company primarily operates in Russia and Ukraine, reflecting its regional focus in the oil and gas industry.


15. Stena Drilling

  • Website: stena-drilling.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 50%, Guyana 18%, United States (USA) 8%, Other 24%
  • Latest funding: April 2018
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: stena-drilling

Stena Drilling, founded in 1996 and based in Aberdeen, Scotland, is an independent drilling contractor specializing in offshore drilling services. The company operates a fleet that includes five ultra-deepwater drillships and one semi-submersible unit, all equipped with advanced technologies for efficient drilling operations. Stena Drilling focuses on providing solutions for oil and gas exploration and production, catering primarily to businesses in the sector. Their commitment to safety and innovation is evident in their operations, which include pioneering managed pressure drilling techniques. Stena Drilling has a global footprint, with significant employee distribution in regions such as Guyana, the United States, and Egypt, reflecting their active engagement in various international markets. The company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Stena AB, which supports its operational capabilities and strategic initiatives.


16. Enhanced Drilling

  • Website: enhanced-drilling.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Straume, Vestland, Norway
  • Employee distribution: Norway 57%, United States (USA) 29%, Australia 9%, Other 5%
  • Latest funding: August 2019
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: enhanced-drilling

Enhanced Drilling, founded in 1987 and based in Straume, Vestland, Norway, is a private equity-backed company that specializes in drilling technology for the offshore oil and gas industry. With a workforce of approximately 191 employees, the company provides a range of services including managed pressure drilling, mud recovery, and cementing services. Enhanced Drilling's innovative solutions are aimed at improving safety and efficiency in drilling operations, particularly in challenging environments such as deepwater and ultra-deepwater drilling. Their flagship technologies, such as the EC-Drill® system and RMR® (Riserless Mud Recovery), have been successfully implemented in numerous projects worldwide, showcasing their capability to tackle various drilling challenges. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational status without external financial pressures.


17. Ventura Petroleo S.A.


Ventura Petroleo S.A., also known as Ventura Offshore, is an offshore drilling company based in Brazil, founded in 1972. Initially involved in manufacturing drilling and production equipment, the company transitioned to offshore drilling in 1998. With a workforce of approximately 939 employees, Ventura Offshore specializes in providing comprehensive services for the oil and gas industry, including offshore drilling, project management, and asset management. The company operates a fleet of four offshore drilling units, including semi-submersibles and drillships, capable of reaching water depths of up to 3,000 meters. Ventura Offshore has established a reputation for operational excellence, having drilled over 100 wells and managed numerous large-scale offshore projects across various international locations, including Brazil, the Gulf of Mexico, and West Africa. Their commitment to safety and quality is reflected in their adherence to industry standards and certifications, such as ISO 9001 and API Spec Q2.


18. Caspian Drilling Company Ltd.


Caspian Drilling Company Ltd. (CDC), established in 1996, is a private drilling company based in Baku, Azerbaijan. The firm specializes in offshore drilling services in the Caspian Sea, providing well engineering and integrated project management to clients in the oil and gas industry. Notable clients include major players such as BP and SOCAR. CDC operates a fleet of semi-submersible drilling rigs, including the Dada Gorgud and Istiglal, which are equipped to handle complex drilling operations. The company has drilled over 114 wells across various geological structures, contributing to significant discoveries in the region. CDC emphasizes safety and operational efficiency, maintaining a strong focus on health, safety, and environmental standards. Their commitment to quality is underscored by their ISO 9001:2015 certification, reflecting their dedication to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.


19. Marine Platforms Limited

  • Website: marineplatforms.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
  • Employee distribution: Nigeria 99%, Other 1%
  • Latest funding: February 2015
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: marine-platforms-ltd

Marine Platforms Limited, founded in 2001 and headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, is an oil service company dedicated to providing integrated subsea solutions and support services to the oil and gas industry across Nigeria and the African continent. The company specializes in brownfield development, subsea solutions, well services, and vessel chartering. With a workforce of approximately 380 employees, Marine Platforms emphasizes enhancing field performance and maintaining subsea asset integrity. They operate a fleet that includes remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and support vessels, which are essential for their subsea operations. The company has established a strong track record in subsea activities, having successfully completed projects for major oil operators in Nigeria, including the installation of flexible flowlines and risers. Their commitment to local content development is evident in their training initiatives aimed at building local expertise in the oil and gas sector. Marine Platforms has not reported any recent funding, indicating a self-sustaining operational model since their last funding round in 2015.


20. Marinsa


Marinsa, founded in 2004 and based in Campeche, Mexico, is an offshore service provider that focuses on integrated solutions for the energy industry. With a workforce of approximately 665 employees, the company offers a variety of services tailored to the oil and gas sector. Their portfolio includes vessel management, geophysical and geotechnical studies, and diving services, all aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and safety in offshore environments. Marinsa operates a fleet of specialized vessels designed to support various stages of oil and gas operations, from exploration to production. They emphasize high standards of quality and safety, aligning their operations with international certifications. The company also engages in environmental sustainability initiatives, reflecting a commitment to responsible practices in the energy sector.


21. Petromarine Nigeria Limited


Petromarine Nigeria Limited, founded in 2005 and based in Lagos, Nigeria, is a private marine service provider specializing in the oil and gas industry. The company offers a range of services that include marine logistics, engineering, procurement, and project management. With a workforce of approximately 28 employees, Petromarine is fully compliant with local regulatory agencies and has established a reputation for safety and reliability in its operations. The company has expanded its service offerings to include subsea and engineering sectors, particularly through its subsidiary, Petromarine Engineering Services Limited. This subsidiary focuses on drilling and production equipment maintenance, project management, and subsea systems installation. Petromarine has successfully executed various projects, including innovative rigless deployment systems for well interventions, showcasing its commitment to efficiency and cost-effectiveness in the oil and gas sector.


22. CCB Subsea AS

  • Website: ccbsubsea.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Brattholmen, Vestland, Norway
  • Employee distribution: Norway 100%
  • Latest funding: November 2020
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: ccbsubsea

CCB Subsea AS, established in 2016, is a subsea engineering and maintenance service provider based in Brattholmen, Vestland, Norway. The company specializes in drilling and operational support for subsea projects, offering a range of services that include engineering studies, maintenance, and recertification of well control equipment. CCB Subsea primarily serves drilling companies and rig owners in the oil and gas industry, focusing on efficient and sustainable solutions. Their innovative approach is highlighted by their in-house developed products, such as the THRUT, which allows for mechanical umbilical-less installation of tubing hangers, significantly reducing rig time and operational risks. CCB Subsea is recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability and operational efficiency, making it a notable player in the subsea drilling sector.



Subsea Drilling Systems Insights: Key Companies


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
Yantai CIMC Raffles Offshore Ltd.Yantai, Shandong, China10001+1977Private
Petrolog GroupHouston, Texas, United States (USA)501-10001983Private
DeepOceanOslo, Oslo, Norway1001-50001993Private Equity
COSL Drilling Europe ASSandnes, Rogaland, Norway201-5002005Private
Oil States IndustriesArlington, Texas, United States (USA)1001-50001942Private
NuStar Technologies Pte LtdSingapore11-502012Private
HmhAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands1001-50002021Private
Diavaz OficialMexico1001-50001973Family Owned
Vrv Subsea & Drilling RepairTamoios, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil51-2002007Private
Grup Servicii PetroliereConstanța, Constanța, Romania1001-50002004Private
AKOFS OffshoreOslo, Oslo, Norway201-5002007Private
IKM Testing ASNorway501-10001992Corporate
Five Star ServicesBrazil201-5001997Private
Trident GroupMoscow, Moscow, Russia51-2002007Corporate
Stena DrillingAberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)1001-50001996Corporate
Enhanced DrillingStraume, Vestland, Norway51-2001987Private Equity
Ventura Petroleo S.A.Brazil201-5001972Corporate
Caspian Drilling Company Ltd.Baku, Baku, Azerbaijan201-5001996Private
Marine Platforms LimitedLagos, Lagos, Nigeria201-5002001Private
MarinsaCampeche, Campeche, Mexico501-10002004Private
Petromarine Nigeria LimitedLagos, Lagos, Nigeria51-2002005Private
CCB Subsea ASBrattholmen, Vestland, Norway51-2002016Corporate


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