SolstadFarstad has signed its first ever contract with Cooper Energy as it expands its portfolio to Australia.

The newly formed offshore mega-player will deploy the 24,371-hp Far Statesman and Far Senator (both built 2013) to tow the Ocean Monarch from the northwest shelf of Australia to the Bass Strait.

The two vessels will then continue with rig support duties for 120 days firm and two 60-day optional periods.