Kerr-McGee Corp. and partner Ocean Energy Inc. have selected Technip Offshore Inc. to construct the world’s first cell spar for the development of the Red Hawk deepwater field in Garden Banks block 877 in the Gulf of Mexico. First production from the natural gas field with estimated proven reserves of more than 250 Bcf is expected in the second quarter of 2004. Located in 5,300 feet of water, Red Hawk will be Kerr-McGee’s deepest development to date. Kerr-McGee Oil & Gas Corp., a subsidiary of the Oklahoma City-based company, operates Red Hawk with 50% interest, and Ocean Energy holds the remaining 50%. Luke R. Corbett, Kerr-McGee CEO, said, “This new cell spar technology will allow us to capitalize on our deepwater prospects by reducing the reserve threshold needed for an economical platform development in deep waters.” The innovative cell spar, which is the third generation of spar technology, will have an initial daily production capacity of 120 MMcf, with ultimate capacity of 300 MMcf. It will measure 64 feet in diameter and 480 feet in length. The design includes seven tubes, each 20 feet in diameter, with a center tube surrounded by the other six tubes, all connected by structural steel. The deck will be 110 feet by 132 feet. Construction is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2002.

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