The new jack-up rigs are expected to be delivered by Sembcorp's Jurong Shipyard in the third quarter of 2013 and first quarter of 2014.

Noble still has options for two additional units that must be exercised by the end of this year.

The vessels will have the capability to operate in water depths up to 400 feet and drill to depths of 30,000 feet, Reuters reported.

Earlier this month, Noble said it had landed contracts for six shallow-water rigs off the coast of Mexico, including four that had been idled in the Gulf of Mexico because of lack of work.

The options were exercised as part of a deal struck in December when Noble ordered two rigs from Sembcorp’s subsidiary Jurong Shipyard, with options for up to four additional rigs.

The rigs will be based on the same Friede & Goldman JU3000N-design as the previous order and be able to operate in harsh environments in water depths of up to 400 feet and be capable of drilling to a depth of 30,000 feet.

Sembcorp said the designs enlarged hull also allowed for a more ergonomic accommodation layout, increased deck space and the strategic placement of equipment for improved efficiency and safety during operations.

“We are delighted that Noble has chosen to exercise two of the four rig options at this opportune time as demand for efficient and high-specification premium rigs is expected to continue,” senior general manager of Jurong’s offshore division, Don Lee, said.

The additional rigs are scheduled for delivery in the third quarter of 2013 and first quarter of 2014, while the previously ordered jack-ups are due to be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2012 and the second quarter of 2013.

Noble still has options for two additional units that must be exercised by the end of this year.