Offshore staff

OSLO, Norway -- Aker Kvaerner has acquired a majority shareholding in the Norwegian company First Interactive AS. The agreement includes an option to buy the remaining shares.

First Interactive AS is a software company specializing in 3D visualization and simulation for the oil and gas sector. First Interactive is headquartered in Stavanger, Norway, with a subsidiary in St. Petersburg, Russia.

First Interactive and the Aker Kvaerner subsidiary Aker Kvaerner MH, are jointly developing applications for 3D visualization and simulation of offshore drilling operations. A new generation drilling simulator, enabling realistic 3D visualization and real-time scenario building, is already launched. The simulator will primarily be used for training of rig operators, but also enables significant reduction in commissioning of drilling rigs currently under construction. The two companies are currently developing solutions for real-time, 3D visualization of drilling operations which will enable onshore support and control of offshore operations. First Interactive's technology and competence can also be applied to other parts of Aker Kvaerner's business such as marine installation, subsea and well services.

02/14/2008