DeepStar, a group consisting of 10 leading deepwater operators, has awarded Aker Kvaerner a contract for a study to develop a semisubmersible production platform for use in coming ultra-deepwater field developments. The study was won in competition with a number of deepwater floater expertise contractors, and Aker Kvaerner was awarded the contract based on the company's leading experience with deepwater floaters. DeepStar wants to get a credible solution for future developments in ultra-deep water depths down to 10 000 feet. In addition to the development of the floating platform itself, the scope includes other critical aspects such as design of the risers that will bring the oil and gas from the well to the surface. It also includes installation methods for mooring systems and risers.