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Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-Q

 

 

 

x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2011

OR

 

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from             to

Commission File Number 001-34094

 

 

VANTAGE DRILLING COMPANY

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Cayman Islands   N/A

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

777 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 800

Houston, TX 77056

(Address of principal executive offices and zip code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (281) 404-4700

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  ¨    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). (Check one):

 

Large accelerated filer   ¨    Accelerated filer   x
Non-accelerated filer   ¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)    Smaller reporting company   ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    Yes  ¨    No  x

The number of Vantage Drilling Company ordinary shares outstanding as of April 25, 2011 is 290,140,937.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

         Page  
SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT      3   
PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION   

Item 1

  Financial Statements (Unaudited)   
  Consolidated Balance Sheet      5   
  Consolidated Statement of Operations – for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010      6   
  Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows – for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010      7   
  Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements      9   

Item 2

  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations      20   

Item 3

  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk      26   

Item 4

  Controls and Procedures      26   

PART II—OTHER INFORMATION

  

Item 6

  Exhibits      27   
SIGNATURES     

 

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SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. This Quarterly Report includes forward-looking statements regarding our plans, goals, strategies, intent, beliefs and current expectations. These statements are expressed in good faith and based upon a reasonable basis when made, but there can be no assurance that these expectations will be achieved or accomplished. These forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and are based on assumptions and subject to risks and uncertainties. Items contemplating or making assumptions about our industry, business strategy, goals, expectations concerning our market position, future operations, margins, profitability, capital expenditures, liquidity and capital resources and other financial and operating information also constitute such forward looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of terms and phrases such as “believe,” “plan,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “target,” “estimate,” “expect,” and the like, and/or future tense or conditional constructions (“will,” “may,” “could,” “should,” etc.). Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are the risks and uncertainties associated with the following:

 

   

our limited operating history;

 

   

our small number of customers;

 

   

credit risks of our key customers and certain other third parties;

 

   

reduced expenditures by oil and natural gas exploration and production companies;

 

   

termination of our customer contracts;

 

   

general economic conditions and conditions in the oil and gas industry;

 

   

our failure to obtain delivery of drilling units;

 

   

delays and cost overruns in construction projects;

 

   

competition within our industry;

 

   

limited mobility between geographic regions;

 

   

operating hazards in the oilfield service industry;

 

   

the impact of the Macondo well incident on offshore drilling, including any government imposed moratorium on offshore drilling;

 

   

ability to obtain indemnity from customers;

 

   

adequacy of insurance coverage in the event of a catastrophic event;

 

   

operations in international markets;

 

   

governmental, tax and environmental regulation;

 

   

changes in legislation removing or increasing current applicable limitations of liability;

 

   

effects of new products and new technology on the market;

 

   

our substantial level of indebtedness;

 

   

our ability to incur additional indebtedness;

 

   

compliance with restrictions and covenants in our debt agreements;

 

   

identifying and completing acquisition opportunities;

 

   

levels of operating and maintenance costs;

 

   

our dependence on key personnel;

 

   

availability of workers and the related labor costs;

 

   

the sufficiency of our internal controls;

 

   

changes in tax laws, treaties or regulations;

 

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any non-compliance with the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act;

 

   

our obligation to repurchase certain indebtedness upon a change of control;

 

   

potential conflicts of interest with F3 Capital; and

 

   

our incorporation under the laws of the Cayman Islands and the limited rights to relief that may be available compared to U.S. laws.

Many of these factors are beyond our ability to control or predict. Any of these factors, or a combination of these factors, could materially affect our future financial condition or results of operations and the ultimate accuracy of the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of our future performance, and our actual results and future developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Management cautions against putting undue reliance on forward-looking statements or projecting any future results based on such statements or present or prior earnings levels. In addition, each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of the particular statement, and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. We may not update these forward-looking statements, even if our situation changes in the future. All forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements. Additional information concerning factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements is contained from time to time in our filings with the SEC, which may be obtained by contacting us or the SEC. These filings are also available through our website at http://www.vantagedrilling.com or through the SEC’s Electronic Data Gathering and Analysis Retrieval System (EDGAR) at http://www.sec.gov. The contents of our website are not part of this Quarterly Report.

Unless the context indicates otherwise, all references to “we,” “our” or “us” refer to Vantage Drilling Company and its consolidated subsidiaries.

 

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Vantage Drilling Company

Consolidated Balance Sheet

(In thousands, except par value information)

 

     March 31,
2011
    December 31,
2010
 
     (Unaudited)        
ASSETS     

Current assets

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 51,709      $ 120,443   

Restricted cash

     27,699        29,004   

Trade receivables

     86,917        50,190   

Inventory

     21,714        19,760   

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     10,940        11,472   
                

Total current assets

     198,979        230,869   
                

Property and equipment

    

Property and equipment

     1,781,926        1,762,844   

Accumulated depreciation

     (60,824     (44,712
                

Property and equipment, net

     1,721,102        1,718,132   
                

Other assets

    

Other assets

     51,424        54,193   
                

Total other assets

     51,424        54,193   
                

Total assets

   $ 1,971,505      $ 2,003,194   
                
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY     

Current liabilities

    

Accounts payable

   $ 41,041      $ 32,332   

Accrued liabilities

     51,748        75,159   

Short-term debt

     6,002        8,574   
                

Total current liabilities

     98,791        116,065   
                

Long–term debt, net of discount of $60,807 and $63,654

     1,107,816        1,103,480   

Other long-term liabilities

     12,486        13,498   

Commitments and contingencies

     —          —     

Shareholders’ equity

    

Preferred shares, $0.001 par value, 10,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding

     —          —     

Ordinary shares, $0.001 par value, 400,000 shares authorized; 289,761 and 289,713 shares issued and outstanding

     290        290   

Additional paid-in capital

     855,471        854,557   

Accumulated deficit

     (103,349     (84,696
                

Total shareholders’ equity

     752,412        770,151   
                

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

   $ 1,971,505      $ 2,003,194   
                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

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Vantage Drilling Company

Consolidated Statement of Operations

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended March 31,  
     2011     2010  

Revenues

    

Contract drilling services

   $ 86,712      $ 39,356   

Management fees

     3,966        4,437   

Reimbursables

     33,911        14,457   
                

Total revenues

     124,589        58,250   
                

Operating costs and expenses

    

Operating costs

     77,351        30,659   

General and administrative

     6,847        4,475   

Depreciation

     16,112        7,477   
                

Total operating expenses

     100,310        42,611   
                

Income from operations

     24,279        15,639   

Other income (expense)

    

Interest income

     38        12   

Interest expense and financing charges

     (41,542     (7,985

Other income

     1,480        612   
                

Total other expense

     (40,024     (7,361
                

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (15,745     8,278   

Income tax provision

     2,909        2,315   
                

Net income (loss)

   $ (18,654   $ 5,963   
                

Earnings (loss) per share

    

Basic

   $ (0.06   $ 0.03   

Diluted

   $ (0.06   $ 0.03   

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

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Vantage Drilling Company

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended March 31,  
   2011     2010  

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

    

Net income (loss)

   $ (18,654   $ 5,963   

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

    

Depreciation expense

     16,112        7,477   

Amortization of debt financing costs

     1,868        976   

Share-based compensation expense

     914        1,526   

Accretion of long-term debt

     1,489        1,217   

Amortization of debt discount

     2,847        293   

Deferred income tax benefit

     (252     —     

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

    

Restricted cash

     1,305        (9,188

Trade receivables

     (36,727     (22,205

Inventory

     (1,954     (1,013

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     533        (3,304

Other assets

     1,162        (198

Accounts payable

     8,709        1,919   

Accrued liabilities

     (24,422     7,245   

Short-term debt

     —          904   
                

Net cash used in operating activities

     (47,070     (8,388
                

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

    

Additions to property and equipment

     (19,083     (11,934

Investment in joint venture

     —          (1,959
                

Net cash used in investing activities

     (19,083     (13,893
                

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

    

Repayment of long-term debt

     —          (9,649

Proceeds from issuance of ordinary shares in public offerings, net

     —          47,688   

Repayment of short-term debt

     (2,572     (1,297

Debt issuance costs

     (9     (59
                

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     (2,581     36,683   
                

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     (68,734     14,402   

Cash and cash equivalents—beginning of period

     120,443        15,992   
                

Cash and cash equivalents—end of period

   $ 51,709      $ 30,394   
                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

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Vantage Drilling Company

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

Supplemental Information

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended March 31,  
     2011      2010  

SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

     

Cash paid for:

     

Interest

   $ 61,619       $ 5,954   

Taxes

     2,053         1,203   

Interest capitalized (non-cash)

     —           (5,009

Non-cash investing and financing transactions:

     

Issuance of ordinary shares in settlement of short-term debt

   $ —         $ (14,144

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

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VANTAGE DRILLING COMPANY

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. Organization and Recent Events

Vantage Drilling Company (“we,” “our,” “us,” “Vantage Drilling” or the “Company”), organized under the laws of the Cayman Islands on November 14, 2007, is a holding corporation with no significant operations or assets other than its interests in its direct and indirect subsidiaries.

2. Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies

The accompanying interim consolidated financial information as of March 31, 2011 and for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 has been prepared without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and include our accounts and those of our majority owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated. They reflect all adjustments which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position and results of operations for the interim periods, on a basis consistent with the annual audited financial statements. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations, although we believe that the disclosures made are adequate to provide for fair presentation. The balance sheet at December 31, 2010 is derived from our December 31, 2010 audited financial statements. These interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes thereto, included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended, for the year ended December 31, 2010. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the operating results for the full fiscal year or any future periods. Certain previously reported amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

Cash and Cash Equivalents: Includes deposits with financial institutions as well as short-term money market instruments with maturities of three months or less when purchased.

Restricted Cash: Consists of cash and cash equivalents established as debt reserves and posted as collateral for bid tenders.

Inventory: Consists of materials, spare parts, consumables and related supplies for our drilling rigs and is carried at average cost.

Property and Equipment: Consists of the values of our drilling rigs, furniture and fixtures, computer equipment and capitalized costs for computer software. Drilling rigs are depreciated on a component basis over estimated useful lives ranging from five to thirty-five years on a straight-line basis as of the date placed in service. Other assets are depreciated upon placement in service over estimated useful lives ranging from three to seven years on a straight-line basis. When assets are sold, retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and the gain or loss is recognized.

Interest costs related to the financings of our jackups and the amortization of debt financing costs were capitalized as part of the cost of the respective jackups while they were under construction. We completed our jackup construction program in the first quarter of 2010. Interest costs were capitalized as part of the cost of the Platinum Explorer while it was under construction. Total interest and amortization costs capitalized for the three months ended March 31, 2010 was $5.0 million. We did not capitalize any interest in the first quarter of 2011.

We evaluate the realization of property and equipment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. An impairment loss on our property and equipment exists when estimated undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition are less than its carrying amount. Any impairment loss recognized represents the excess of the asset’s carrying value over the estimated fair value.

Debt Financing Costs: Costs incurred with debt financings are deferred and amortized over the term of the related financing facility.

 

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Revenue: Revenue is recognized as services are performed based on contracted dayrates and the number of operating days during the period.

In connection with a customer contract, we may receive lump-sum fees for the mobilization of equipment and personnel. Mobilization fees and costs incurred to mobilize a rig from one geographic market to another are deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of such contract, excluding any option periods. Costs incurred to mobilize a rig without a contract are expensed as incurred. Fees or lump-sum payments received for capital improvements to rigs are deferred and amortized to income over the term of the related drilling contract. The costs of such capital improvements are capitalized and depreciated over the useful lives of the assets.

We record reimbursements from customers for rebillable costs and expenses as revenue and the related direct costs as operating expenses.

Rig Certifications: We are required to obtain regulatory certifications to operate our drilling rigs and must maintain such certifications through periodic inspections and surveys. The costs associated with these certifications, including drydock costs, are deferred and amortized over the corresponding certification periods.

Income Taxes: Income taxes have been provided based upon the tax laws and rates in effect in the countries in which operations are conducted and income is earned. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are computed for differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities that will result in future taxable or deductible amounts and are based on enacted tax laws and rates applicable to the periods in which the differences are expected to affect taxable income. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred income tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.

Earnings per Share: Basic earnings (loss) per share have been based on the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the applicable period. Diluted income per share has been computed based on the weighted average number of ordinary shares and ordinary share equivalents outstanding in the applicable period, as if all potentially dilutive securities were converted into ordinary shares (using the treasury stock method).

The following is a reconciliation of the number of shares used for the basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share (“EPS”) computations:

 

     Three Months Ended March 31,  
     2011      2010  
     (In thousands)  

Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding for basic EPS

     289,724         224,595   

Options

     —           —     

Warrants

     —           —     
                 

Adjusted weighted average ordinary shares outstanding for diluted EPS

     289,724         224,595   
                 

The calculation of diluted weighted average ordinary shares outstanding excludes 41.7 million and 42.8 million ordinary shares for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, issuable pursuant to outstanding warrants or stock options because their effect is anti-dilutive as the exercise price of such securities exceeded the average market price of our shares for the applicable periods.

Concentration of Credit Risk: Financial instruments that potentially subject us to a significant concentration of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash. We maintain deposits in federally insured financial institutions in excess of federally insured limits. We monitor the credit ratings and our concentration of risk with these financial institutions on a continuing basis to safeguard our cash deposits. Some of our restricted cash is invested in certificates of deposits.

Share-Based Compensation: We account for employee share-based compensation using the fair value method as prescribed under U.S. GAAP. Restricted share grants are valued based on the market price of our ordinary shares on the date of grant and the fair value attributable to share options is calculated based on the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The fair values are amortized to expense over the service period which is equivalent to the time required to vest the share options and share grants. We recognized approximately $0.9 million and $1.5 million of share-based compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

 

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Use of Estimates: The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. While management believes current estimates are appropriate and reasonable, actual results could differ from those estimates.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments: The fair value of our short-term financial assets and liabilities approximates the carrying amounts represented in the balance sheets principally due to the short-term or floating rate nature of these instruments. The Aquamarine Term Loan bears cash interest at 15% per annum and will mature September 3, 2014. In addition to the cash interest, the debt incurs pay-in-kind interest which accretes the value of the debt to $140.0 million at maturity. We believe the carrying amount of the Aquamarine Term Loan approximates its current fair value. The 11 1/2% Senior Secured Notes (the “Notes”) issued in July 2010 were issued at a price equal to 96.361% of their face value and the original issue discount, reported as a direct deduction from the face amount of the notes, will be recognized over the life of the notes using the effective interest rate method. As of April 25, 2011, the Notes were trading at approximately 112% of their par value, indicating a fair value of approximately $1.12 billion. We originally valued the F3 Capital Note based on our then weighted average cost of capital, resulting in a discounted present value of $27.8 million. The discount is reported as a direct deduction from the face amount of the note and is being recognized over the life of the note using the effective interest rate method. As of March 31, 2011, if we were to value the F3 Capital Note without the conversion feature at our current weighted average cost of capital, the current discounted present value would be approximately $22.8 million.

Derivative Financial Instruments: We use derivative financial instruments to reduce our exposure to various market risks, primarily interest rate risk. We have documented policies and procedures to monitor and control the use of derivatives. We do not engage in derivative transactions for speculative or trading purposes. On July 30, 2010, in connection with the retirement of our credit facility, we retired all of our outstanding interest rate hedges.

All derivatives are recorded on our consolidated balance sheet at fair value. Accounting for the gains and losses resulting from changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the use of the derivative and whether it qualifies for hedge accounting in accordance with U.S. GAAP. For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of other comprehensive income and reclassified into earnings in the same line item associated with the forecasted transaction and in the period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Our assessment for hedge effectiveness is formally documented at hedge inception, and we review hedge effectiveness and measure any ineffectiveness throughout the designated hedge period on at least a quarterly basis.

3. Acquisitions and Management and Construction Supervision Agreements

Purchase of F3 Capital’s Interest in Mandarin

Share Sale and Purchase Agreement

On July 6, 2010, we entered into a Share Sale and Purchase Agreement (“SSPA”) with F3 Capital, our largest shareholder and an affiliate, to purchase the 55% interest in Mandarin that we did not already own for total consideration of $139.7 million, consisting of $79.7 million in cash and a promissory note in the amount of $60.0 million (the “F3 Capital Note”). The cash consideration was reduced by approximately $64.2 million for the third and fourth installment payments that were paid by us directly to the shipyard for the construction of the Platinum Explorer. The SSPA contained customary representations and warranties for both us and F3 Capital.

Registration Rights Agreement

We also entered into a registration rights agreement with F3 Capital in connection with the SSPA. Under the terms of the registration rights agreement, we agreed to register the ordinary shares issuable upon the conversion of the F3 Capital Note if it becomes convertible, as well as certain other shares previously issued to F3 Capital and approved by shareholders in December 2009. The shares were registered in January 2011.

 

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Call Option Agreement

In connection with the transactions contemplated by the SSPA, we entered into a call option agreement with Valencia Drilling Corporation (“Valencia”), an affiliate of F3 Capital. Pursuant to the terms of the call option agreement, we granted Valencia the option to purchase Vantage Deepwater Company (“Vantage Deepwater”) from us for total consideration of $1.00. Vantage Deepwater is the party to our drilling contract with Petrobras. The option granted to Valencia under the call option agreement could only be exercised upon the satisfaction of certain conditions. We believe that the time period for Valencia to exercise the option has ended, and that the option granted in the call option agreement has terminated.

Dragonquest Agreement

In connection with the transactions contemplated by the SSPA, we, F3 Capital, Vantage Deepwater and Titanium Explorer Company (“Titanium”), another of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, entered into an agreement with Valencia regarding the financing of Dragonquest. Under the terms of the agreement, we will take specified measures to facilitate the financing of the Dragonquest, although such measures do not include the incurrence of additional debt, the issuance of any guarantees or the pledge of our assets. We have also agreed, if requested by Valencia or a third party financier, to assist Valencia in providing collateral in order to procure financing for the Dragonquest, including providing a security interest in or novating the drilling contract with Petrobras and deferring up to 75% of the fees payable under the management agreement. If any management fees are deferred, such deferred fees will be payable annually with interest of 8%, and any deferred fees may be paid in cash or ordinary shares of Valencia, at Valencia’s election. Further, pursuant to the financing agreement, we have agreed to defer Valencia’s payment of construction management fees due to Titanium under the construction management agreement between Titanium and Valencia from July 6, 2010, until the delivery date of the Dragonquest, or until a significant construction loan is obtained by Valencia. As of March 31, 2011, $3.7 million of construction management fees have been deferred. Upon the occurrence of any default by Valencia within eight years after the date of the financing agreement, we shall have the option (subject to certain exceptions) to purchase all of the issued and outstanding shares of Valencia from F3 Capital.

Drillship Construction Supervision Agreements

We have construction supervision agreements that entitle us to payments for supervising the construction of the Dragonquest and Cobalt Explorer. The counterparties in each of these agreements are affiliates of F3 Capital. During the construction of each of these drillships, these agreements entitle us to receive a fee of $5.0 million per drillship annually, prorated to the extent construction is completed mid-year. In addition to our annual fee, we will be reimbursed for all direct costs incurred in the performance of construction oversight services. These agreements may be terminated by either party upon the provision of notice.

In September 2009, North Pole Drilling Corporation (“North Pole”), an affiliate of F3 Capital, and the shipyard constructing the Cobalt Explorer agreed to suspend construction activities on the Cobalt Explorer for one year. Consequently we agreed with North Pole to suspend for a corresponding period of time obligations under our agreement with North Pole to provide construction supervision services. In November 2009, pursuant to the terms of

 

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the construction supervision agreement, North Pole cancelled the agreement. The management fee revenue of approximately $3.0 million for construction services rendered by us in 2009 prior to the suspension and cancellation has not been paid as of March 31, 2011 and remains currently due and payable. In January 2011, we issued a demand letter to North Pole regarding payment of the overdue amount. We will continue to pursue all remedies, including legal remedies, to collect this outstanding amount.

On July 21, 2010, we signed a definitive agreement to supervise and manage the construction and marketing of the ultra-deepwater drillship the Dalian Developer. The owner of this drillship awarded us a management agreement to supervise and manage the construction, commissioning and marketing of the Dalian Developer, pursuant to which, we are receiving management fees and reimbursable costs during the construction phase of the drillship.

In February 2011, we entered into an agreement with an unaffiliated third party to provide services related to the design, construction and commissioning of two ultra-deepwater drillships being built in Korea.

Drillship Management Agreements

We have an agreement to manage the operations of the Dragonquest. Once the Dragonquest is operational, the agreement entitles us to receive a fixed fee per day plus a performance fee based on the operational performance of the drillship and marketing fees for every charter agreement we secure on behalf of the Dragonquest. Valencia may terminate their obligations under the agreement if any of the following occur: (i) we fail to meet our obligations under the agreement after being given notice and time to cure; (ii) we go into liquidation or cease to carry on our business; (iii) the Dragonquest is damaged to the point of being inoperable; or (iv) the Dragonquest is sold and no outstanding payments are owed to us. Valencia may terminate the agreement at will only if there are no outstanding bids, proposals or contractual commitments to customers.

4. Debt

Short-term Debt

As of March 31, 2011, we had short-term debt of approximately $6.0 million related to our financing of rig insurance premiums. These notes had annual interest rates of 3.3%.

Long-term Debt

As of March 31, 2011, our long-term debt was composed of the following:

 

     March  31,
2011
     December  31,
2010
 
     
     (Unaudited)         
     (In thousands)  

11 1/2% Senior Secured Notes, net of discount of $31,513 and $33,304

   $ 968,487       $ 966,696   

Aquamarine Term Loan

     108,623         107,134   

F3 Capital note, net of discount of $29,294 and $30,350

     30,706         29,650   
                 
     1,107,816         1,103,480   

Less current maturities of long-term debt

     —           —     
                 

Long-term debt

   $ 1,107,816       $ 1,103,480   
                 

11 1/2% Senior Secured Notes

On July 30, 2010, a wholly-owned subsidiary (the “Issuer”) issued $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of its Notes under an indenture. The Notes were issued at a price equal to 96.361% of their face value, and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, on a senior secured basis, by us. The original issuance discount, reported as a direct deduction from the face amount of the Notes, will be recognized over the life of the notes using the effective interest rate method. The yield to maturity interest rate is 12.5%. The Notes mature on August 1, 2015 and bear interest from the date of their issuance at the rate of 11.5% per year. Interest on outstanding notes is payable semi-annually in arrears, commencing on February 1, 2011. The net proceeds, after fees and expenses, of approximately $931.9 million were used to acquire the Platinum Explorer, retire certain outstanding debt and for general corporate purposes.

 

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The Notes may be redeemed, in whole or in part at specified redemption prices plus accrued and unpaid interest on the notes redeemed. If a change of control, as defined in the indenture, occurs, each holder of notes will have the right to require the repurchase of all or any part of its notes at a price equal to 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of repurchase. The indenture governing the Notes, among other things, limits the issuer of the notes and any future restricted subsidiaries’ ability, and in certain cases, our ability to: (i) incur or guarantee additional indebtedness or issue disqualified capital stock; (ii) create or incur liens; (iii) pay dividends, redeem subordinated indebtedness or make other restricted payments; (iv) transfer or sell assets; (v) incur dividend or other payment restrictions affecting restricted subsidiaries; (vi) consummate a merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of our assets or those of the Issuer; (vii) enter into transactions with affiliates; (viii) designate subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries; (ix) engage in businesses other than a business that is the same or similar to the current business and reasonably related businesses; and (x) take or omit to take any actions that would adversely affect or impair in any material respect the collateral securing the notes. As of March 31, 2011, there were no restricted subsidiaries. Our future subsidiaries may become restricted subsidiaries and guarantors under limited circumstances.

Aquamarine Term Loan

In September 2009, one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries entered into a loan with a lender for $100.0 million (the “Aquamarine Term Loan”). The Aquamarine Term Loan bears cash interest at 15% per annum and will mature September 3, 2014. The lender holds a first priority security interest in the Aquamarine Driller and is entitled to an assignment of certain of our rights under any contracts relating to the Aquamarine Driller. The Aquamarine Term Loan has a variety of covenants, including a financial covenant debt service coverage test at the wholly-owned subsidiary level, and administrative reporting requirements. We were in compliance with all financial covenants of the Aquamarine Term Loan at March 31, 2011. As of March 31, 2011, we had $26.6 million in escrow to fund future interest payments, as well as operational and maintenance costs related to the Aquamarine Driller. In February 2011 we amended the Aquamarine Term Loan to allow us to prepay and discharge the outstanding loan thereunder according to a determined prepayment schedule and waive certain requirements related to one of our drilling contracts.

F3 Capital Note

The F3 Capital Note bears interest at the rate of 5% per annum, accruing and compounding daily, and will mature 90 months from the issue date. The F3 Capital Note included a contingent convertible feature, subject to shareholder vote. We originally valued the F3 Capital Note based on our then weighted average cost of capital resulting in a discounted present value of $27.8 million. The F3 Capital Note would become convertible into our ordinary shares upon approval by our shareholders at a conversion price of $1.10 per share, subject to customary anti-dilution covenants. At our shareholder’s meeting in January 2011, shareholders did not approve the conversion of the F3 Capital Note. There is also a preemptive right covenant that provides F3 Capital with the right to purchase a pro-rata portion of any equity or convertible debt that we offer so long as the F3 Capital Note is outstanding. Under the terms of the F3 Capital Note, if convertible, any principal amount that F3 Capital elects to convert would be reduced by any amounts owed by F3 Capital to Vantage International Management Company or Vantage Deepwater. If we do not repay the F3 Capital Note on its scheduled maturity date or upon the occurrence of certain customary default provisions, the interest rate on any amounts outstanding under the F3 Capital Note will rise to 10% per annum.

5. Shareholders’ Equity

Preferred Shares

In December 2009, our shareholders approved a proposal to amend our Memorandum and Articles of Association to increase our authorized preferred shares from 1,000,000 preferred shares, par value $0.001 per share, to 10,000,000 preferred shares, par value $0.001 per share. As of March 31, 2011, no preferred shares were issued and outstanding.

 

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Ordinary Shares

During the three months ended March 31, 2011, we granted 1,081,317 restricted shares to employees under our 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “LTIP”). These restricted share awards vest ratably over four years and are amortized to expense over the vesting period based on the fair value of the awards at the grant dates, which was approximately $2.0 million, based on an average share price of $1.88 per share. In the three months ended March 31, 2011, we issued 47,920 ordinary shares pursuant to vesting of previously granted LTIP stock awards.

In January 2011, certain executives of the Company voluntarily surrendered for cancellation options to acquire 1,112,750 ordinary shares. The shares underlying these options were then available for issuance to other employees under the LTIP, excluding the executives that had surrendered the stock options.

6. Income Taxes

We are a Cayman Islands entity. The Cayman Islands does not impose corporate income taxes. Consequently, income taxes have been provided based on the laws and rates in effect in the countries in which operations are conducted, or in which we or our subsidiaries are considered resident for income tax purposes. We are subject to the jurisdiction of numerous domestic and foreign tax authorities, as well as to tax agreements and treaties among various governments. Our operations in these different jurisdictions are taxed on various bases including, (i) actual income before taxes, (ii) deemed profits (which are generally determined using a percentage of revenue) and (iii) withholding taxes based on revenue. Determination of taxable income in any jurisdiction requires the interpretation of the related tax laws and regulations and the use of estimates and assumptions regarding significant future events, such as the amount, timing and character of deductions, permissible revenue recognition methods under the tax law and the sources and character of income and tax credits. Changes in tax laws, regulations, agreements and treaties, foreign currency exchange restrictions or our level of operations or profitability in each tax jurisdiction could have an impact upon the amount of income taxes that we provide during any given year. Our tax filings for various periods may be subjected to examination by tax authorities in the jurisdictions in which we operate. These examinations may result in assessments of additional taxes that are resolved with the authorities or through the courts. Resolution of these matters involves uncertainties and there are no assurances as to the outcome.

We account for income taxes pursuant to ASC 740, Accounting for Income Taxes, which requires recognition of deferred income tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in our financial statements or tax returns. We provide for deferred taxes on temporary differences between the financial statements and tax bases of assets using the enacted tax rates which are expected to apply to taxable income when the temporary differences are expected to reverse.

Deferred income taxes reflect the impact of temporary differences between the amount of assets and liabilities recorded under U.S. GAAP and the applicable income tax statutes and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate. Deferred tax liabilities consist primarily of the difference between book and tax basis of depreciable assets. Book basis in excess of tax basis for property and equipment primarily results from differing methodologies for recording property costs and depreciation and amortization under U.S. GAAP and the tax provisions in the jurisdictions in which we operate. Deferred tax assets are also provided for certain tax credit carryforwards. A valuation allowance is established to reduce deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

Our periodic tax returns are subject to examination by taxing authorities in the jurisdictions in which we operate in accordance with the normal statutes of limitations in the applicable jurisdiction. These examinations may result in assessments of additional taxes that are resolved with the authorities or through the courts. Resolution of these matters involves uncertainties and there are no assurances as to the outcome. Our tax years 2007 through 2010 remain open to examination in many of our jurisdictions. During 2010, authorities in Thailand commenced an examination for the 2009 tax year. In April 2011, we closed a tax examination in the U.S. for the 2007 and 2008 tax years.

7. Commitments and Contingencies

We are subject to litigation, claims and disputes in the ordinary course of business, some of which may not be covered by insurance.

 

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In September 2009, F3 Capital asserted that we had breached agreements and understandings with F3 Capital regarding the maximum number of ordinary shares we would sell in our public offering in August 2009. F3 Capital indicated that it believed that it was damaged by the issuance of shares in excess of this amount. We disagree with F3 Capital’s assertions. We have worked to resolve these matters with F3 Capital and believe that we have done so to each party’s satisfaction, although no assurances can be given as to the ultimate resolution of this dispute.

8. Supplemental Financial Information

Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets

Prepaid expenses and other current assets consisted of the following:

 

     March 31,
2011
     December 31,
2010
 
     (Unaudited)         
     (In thousands)  

Prepaid insurance

   $ 6,378       $ 9,169   

Sales tax receivable

     1,462         1,141   

Income tax receivable

     832         —     

Other receivables

     52         340   

Deferred mobilization costs

     1,002         —     

Other prepaid expenses

     1,214         822   
                 
   $ 10,940       $ 11,472   
                 

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment consisted of the following:

 

     March 31,
2011
    December 31,
2010
 
     (Unaudited)        
     (In thousands)  

Drilling equipment

   $ 1,775,258      $ 1,757,083   

Assets under construction

     1,643        1,219   

Leasehold improvements

     1,045        1,045   

Office and technology equipment

     3,980        3,497   
                
     1,781,926        1,762,844   

Accumulated depreciation

     (60,824     (44,712
                

Property and equipment, net

   $ 1,721,102      $ 1,718,132   
                

Interest costs related to the financings of our drillings rigs and the amortization of debt financing costs are capitalized as part of the cost of the rig while it is under construction We capitalized approximately $5.0 million of interest and amortization costs for the three months ended March 31, 2010. We did not capitalize any interest in the first quarter of 2011.

Other Assets

Other assets consisted of the following:

 

     March 31,
2011
     December 31,
2010
 
     (Unaudited)         
     (In thousands)  

Deferred financing costs, net

   $ 31,375       $ 33,234   

Performance bond collateral

     18,225         18,251   

Deferred income taxes

     384         132   

Income tax receivable

     —           1,207   

Deposits

     1,440         1,369   
                 
   $ 51,424       $ 54,193   
                 

 

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Accrued Liabilities

Accrued liabilities consisted of the following:

 

     March 31,
2011
     December 31,
2010
 
     (Unaudited)         
     (In thousands)  

Interest

   $ 21,214       $ 49,524   

Compensation

     10,599         13,686   

Unearned income

     8,655         3,218   

Deferred mobilization revenue

     1,306         —     

Property, service and franchise taxes

     1,610         1,610   

Income taxes payable

     7,847         6,748   

Other

     517         373   
                 
   $ 51,748       $ 75,159   
                 

9. Business Segment Information

Our business activities relate to the international operations of our offshore drilling units, both jackup rigs and drillship, and providing construction supervision services in South Korea and China for drilling units owned by others.

For the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, all of our revenue was from countries outside of the United States. Consequently, we are exposed to the risk of changes in economic, political and social conditions inherent in foreign operations. Three customers accounted for approximately 40%, 19% and 11%, respectively, of consolidated revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2011. Three customers accounted for approximately 30%, 25% and 21%, respectively, of consolidated revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2010.

10. Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information

In July 2010, a wholly-owned subsidiary (the “Issuer”) issued $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of its Notes under an indenture. The Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior secured basis by (i) us and (ii) certain subsidiaries (the “Subsidiary Guarantors”). None of our other subsidiaries will guarantee or pledge assets to secure the notes (collectively, the “Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries”).

The following tables present the condensed, consolidating financial information as of March 31, 2011 and 2010 and for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 of (i) us, (ii) the Issuer, (iii) the Subsidiary Guarantors, (iv) the Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries and (v) consolidating and elimination entries representing adjustments to eliminate (a) investments in our subsidiaries and (b) intercompany transactions.

The financial information as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 reflect all adjustments which are, in management’s opinion, necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position results of operations for the three months then ended.

 

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Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet (in thousands)

 

     As of March 31, 2011  
     Parent     Issuer     Subsidiary
Guarantors
     Non-
Guarantors
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 22,221      $ 339      $ 21,263       $ 7,886      $ —        $ 51,709   

Other current assets

     630        —          93,921         52,719        —          147,270   
                                                 

Total current assets

     22,851        339        115,184         60,605        —          198,979   

Property and equipment, net

     865        —          1,493,248         226,989        —          1,721,102   

Investment in and advances to subsidiaries

     488,170        424,451        2,545         63,974        (979,140     —     

Investment in joint venture

     —          —          —           —          —          —     

Other assets

     —          27,662        18,553         5,209        —          51,424   
                                                 

Total assets

   $ 511,886      $ 452,452      $ 1,629,530       $ 356,777      $ (979,140   $ 1,971,505   
                                                 

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

   $ 4,749      $ 19,167      $ 24,126       $ 44,747      $ —        $ 92,789   

Short-term debt

     6,002        —          —           —          —          6,002   

Current maturities of long-term debt

     —          —          —           —          —          0   

Intercompany (receivable) payable

     (327,567     (976,656     1,094,520         209,703        —          —     
                                                 

Total current liabilities

     (316,816     (957,489     1,118,646         254,450        —          98,791   

Long-term debt

     30,706        968,487        —           108,623        —          1,107,816   

Other long term liabilities

     —          —          9,496         2,990        —          12,486   

Shareholders’ equity (deficit)

     797,996        441,454        501,388         (9,286     (979,140     752,412   
                                                 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

   $ 511,886      $ 452,452      $ 1,629,530       $ 356,777      $ (979,140   $ 1,971,505   
                                                 

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations (in thousands)

 

  

     Three Months Ended March 31, 2011  
     Parent     Issuer     Subsidiary
Guarantors
     Non-
Guarantors
    Consolidated  

Revenues

   $ —        $ —        $ 78,608       $ 45,981      $ 124,589   

Operating costs and expenses

     4,605        1        51,246         44,458        100,310   
                                         

Income (loss) from operations

     (4,605     (1     27,362         1,523        24,279   

Other income (expense)

     (1,856     (32,137     751         (6,782     (40,024
                                         

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (6,461     (32,138     28,113         (5,259     (15,745

Income tax provision

     576        —          2,261         72        2,909   
                                         

Net income (loss)

   $ (7,037   $ (32,138   $ 25,852       $ (5,331   $ (18,654
                                         

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flow (in thousands)

 

  

     Three Months Ended March 31, 2011  
     Parent     Issuer     Subsidiary
Guarantors
    Non-
Guarantors
    Consolidated  

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

   $ (5,549   $ (57,833   $ 7,202      $ 9,110      $ (47,070

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

     (73     —          (19,014     4        (19,083

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     (67,441     57,037        16,124        (8,301     (2,581
                                        

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

     (73,063     (796     4,312        813        (68,734

Cash and cash equivalents—beginning of period

     95,284        1,135        16,951        7,073        120,443   
                                        

Cash and cash equivalents—end of period

   $ 22,221      $ 339      $ 21,263      $ 7,886      $ 51,709   
                                        

 

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Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet (in thousands)

 

  

     As of March 31, 2010  
     Parent     Issuer     Subsidiary
Guarantors
     Non-
Guarantors
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 1      $ 1      $ 8,280       $ 22,112      $ —        $ 30,394   

Other current assets

     357        —          46,471         54,110        —          100,938   
                                                 

Total current assets

     358        1        54,751         76,222        —          131,332   

Property and equipment, net

     138        —          657,007         235,525        —          892,670   

Investment in and advances to subsidiaries

     485,470        424,451        20         63,954        (973,895     —     

Investment in joint venture

     122,265        —          —           —          —          122,265   

Other assets

     8,022        —          13,315         7,385        —          28,722   
                                                 

Total assets

   $ 616,253      $ 424,452      $ 725,093       $ 383,086      $ (973,895   $ 1,174,989   
                                                 

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

   $ (314   $ —        $ 15,969       $ 23,886      $ —        $ 39,541   

Short-term debt

     3,434        —          —           —          —          3,434   

Current maturities of long-term debt

     —          —          16,000         —          —          16,000   

Intercompany (receivable) payable

     (387,980     (60,908     109,300         339,588        —          —     
                                                 

Total current liabilities

     (384,860     (60,908     141,269         363,474        —          58,975   

Long-term debt

     —          —          267,083         102,856        —          369,939   

Shareholders’ equity (deficit)

     1,001,113        485,360        316,741         (83,244     (973,895     746,075   
                                                 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

   $ 616,253      $ 424,452      $ 725,093       $ 383,086      $ (973,895   $ 1,174,989   
                                                 

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations (in thousands)

 

  

     Three Months Ended March 31, 2010  
     Parent     Issuer     Subsidiary
Guarantors
    Non-
Guarantors
    Consolidated  

Revenues

   $ —        $ —        $ 26,990      $ 31,260      $ 58,250   

Operating costs and expenses

     3,555        22        18,923        20,111        42,611   
                                        

Income (loss) from operations

     (3,555     (22     8,067        11,149        15,639   

Other income (expense)

     (32     —          (3,046     (4,283     (7,361
                                        

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (3,587     (22     5,021        6,866        8,278   

Income tax provision

     —          —          1,188        1,127        2,315   
                                        

Net income (loss)

   $ (3,587   $ (22   $ 3,833      $ 5,739      $ 5,963   
                                        

 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flow (in thousands)

 

  

     Three Months Ended March 31, 2010  
     Parent     Issuer     Subsidiary
Guarantors
    Non-
Guarantors
    Consolidated  

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

   $ (2,540   $ (22   $ 9,527      $ (15,353   $ (8,388

Net cash used in investing activities

     (2,026     —          (9,445     (2,422     (13,893

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     4,566        22        (2,174     34,269        36,683   
                                        

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

     0        —          (2,092     16,494        14,402   

Cash and cash equivalents—beginning of period

     1        1        10,372        5,618        15,992   
                                        

Cash and cash equivalents—end of period

   $ 1      $ 1      $ 8,280      $ 22,112      $ 30,394   
                                        

11. Subsequent Event

On May 9, 2011, we entered into an agreement to with Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering Co., Ltd (“DSME”) to construct an ultra-deepwater drillship. The agreement is a fixed price turnkey contract for the construction of the drillship with a scheduled delivery date in the second quarter of 2013. The cost of the drillship, including all project management, commissioning, spares, pre-delivery crew costs and inventory is estimated to be approximately $590 million to $600 million. We also obtained from DSME a fixed price option for the purchase of a second drillship.

The drillship, which will be constructed at DSME’s shipyard in Okpo, Korea, is capable of operating in water depths up to 12,000 feet, with a total vertical drilling depth capacity of 40,000 feet. The hull design has a variable deck load of 20,000 tons and measures 781 feet long by 137 feet wide. The drillship will be equipped with what we believe to be the most technically advanced features in the drilling industry, including DP3 dynamic positioning system, 1,250 short ton hook load drilling package, offline pipe handling, trip saver system and will meet current leading Brazilian operator specifications. The drillship has accommodations for 200 personnel.

 

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Item 2.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion is intended to assist you in understanding our financial position at March 31, 2011 and our three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010. The discussion should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto, included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended, for the year ended December 31, 2010. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the operating results for the full fiscal year or any future periods. Certain previously reported amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

Overview

We are an international offshore drilling company focused on operating a fleet of modern, high specification drilling units. Our principal business is to contract drilling units, related equipment and work crews, primarily on a dayrate basis to drill oil and natural gas wells for our customers. We also provide construction supervision services for, and will operate and manage, drilling units owned by others. Through our fleet of five wholly-owned drilling units we are a provider of offshore contract drilling services to major, national and independent oil and natural gas companies, focused primarily on international markets.

The following table sets forth certain information concerning our owned and managed offshore drilling fleet.

 

Name

   Ownership     Year Built/
Expected
Delivery
     Water Depth
Rating  (feet)
     Drilling  Depth
Capacity
(feet)
     Status  

Jackups

             

Emerald Driller

     100     2008         375         30,000         Operating   

Sapphire Driller

     100     2009         375         30,000         Operating   

Aquamarine Driller

     100     2009         375         30,000         Operating   

Topaz Driller

     100     2009         375         30,000         Operating   

Drillships

             

Platinum Explorer (1)

     100     2010         12,000        40,000         Operating   

Dragonquest (2)

     —          2011         12,000         40,000         Under construction   

Construction Oversight Agreement (3)

             

Aker I

     —          2013         12,000         40,000         Under construction   

Aker II

     —          2013         12,000         40,000         Under construction   

Dalian Developer

     —          2012         10,000         40,000         Under construction   

 

(1) The Platinum Explorer is designed to drill in up to 12,000 feet of water, but is equipped to drill in 10,000 feet of water.
(2) The Dragonquest was formerly known as the Titanium Explorer. We are currently overseeing the construction of this drillship pursuant to a construction supervision agreement and have a contract to operate this vessel upon completion of construction. In connection with the operation of this vessel, we have entered into an 8-year contract with Petrobras.
(3) We are currently overseeing the construction of these drillships pursuant to construction supervision agreements. While we may assist the owners in marketing these units, we do not currently have marketing or operating commitments for these units.

Business Outlook

Expectations about future oil and natural gas prices have historically been a key driver for demand for our services. However, the availability of quality drilling prospects, exploration success, availability of qualified drilling rigs and operating personnel, relative production costs, availability and lead time requirements for drilling and production equipment, the stage of reservoir development and political and regulatory environments also affect our customers’ drilling programs.

 

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The current outlook for the demand for our services is generally positive as the international prices for oil and gas remain strong. Although worldwide economic activity continues to improve, there is uncertainty about its sustainability. Additionally, recent issues in the credit markets highlight concerns about the recovery of global financial markets. Following the Macondo well incident in April 2010, the U.S. government undertook a complete regulatory review of domestic offshore drilling operations with the intention of strengthening the regulatory environment. While the industry is experiencing higher spending by oil and gas companies, especially in deepwater international regions, drilling activity in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico is likely to remain uncertain as a result of the six-month moratorium on certain drilling activities in water depths greater than 500 feet that was imposed after the Macondo well incident. Although the U.S. government has lifted the moratorium and begun issuing deepwater drilling permits, the approval process remains slow. Currently we do not have operations in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, however the Dragonquest , a deepwater drillship we will operate upon completion of its construction, is currently scheduled to commence drilling operations in late 2011 in the U.S Gulf of Mexico. Our customer is currently in the process of obtaining the necessary permit for the initial U.S. Gulf of Mexico well. While there is no certainty that the permit will be obtained, the Dragonquest is contracted on an international basis and the customer may direct us to mobilize to another market.

Additionally, political instability and civil unrest in the Middle East, West Africa and North Africa has already resulted in offshore drilling contracts being delayed or terminated under force majeure provisions of such contracts as access to these regions has become limited or restricted. The long-term impact of the political instability cannot be determined at this time which may result in oil and gas companies deferring offshore drilling projects in these regions. These conditions may also result in drilling contractors strategically moving drilling rigs from these areas into different markets creating more competition in markets in which we currently operate.

We believe the market for jackups continues to improve as operators are developing oil and gas reserves in response to improved oil prices. The continued improvement in the demand for modern, high specification jackup rigs will be subject to several factors including the additional deliveries of newbuild premium jackup rigs and the possible re-activation of older, less efficient rigs by our competitors.

Deepwater and ultra-deepwater projects are typically more expensive and longer in duration than shallow-water drilling programs, which reduces the volatility of dayrates and utilization to short-term fluctuations in oil and natural gas prices and general economic conditions. Deepwater operators tend to take a longer-term view of the global economy and oil and natural gas prices. We believe the long-term fundamentals for demand for oil and natural gas support a significant increase in deepwater and ultra-deepwater development. This development is further supported by significant oilfield discoveries offshore Brazil and continued deepwater field development in West Africa and India. The global financial crisis negatively impacted operators’ ability to obtain financing, and accordingly, many operators deferred development of deepwater projects, which delayed the commencement of drilling operations. We believe oil and gas companies are now generally planning to increase drilling operations.

With the strong long-term view of deepwater and ultra-deepwater prospects, numerous parties have recently placed shipyard orders to build additional semisubmersibles and drillships. As of April 2011, we estimate there are approximately 58 deepwater rigs scheduled for delivery through 2013, 34 of which are not yet contracted to customers. Although deepwater and ultra-deepwater dayrates have declined from their highs in late 2007, we expect the market to maintain current dayrate levels as the newbuilds are delivered.

Results of Operations The first of our jackup rigs was delivered in December 2008 and began operations under its initial contract in February 2009. Our second jackup rig began operating under its first contract in August 2009 and our third jackup rig commenced operations in January 2010. Our fourth jackup rig was delivered in December 2009 and began operating in March 2010. Our drillship, the Platinum Explorer, was delivered in November 2010 and commenced operations in late December 2010.

The following table is an analysis of our operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010.

 

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     Three Months Ended March 31,        
     2011     2010     Change  
     (In thousands)  

Contract drilling services

   $ 86,712      $ 39,356      $ 47,356   

Management fees

     3,966        4,437        (471

Reimbursables

     33,911        14,457        19,454   
                        
     124,589        58,250        66,339   

Operating costs

     77,351        30,659        (49,692

General and administrative

     6,847        4,475        (2,372

Depreciation

     16,112        7,477        (8,635
                        

Operating income

     24,279        15,639        8,640   

Other income (expense)

      

Interest income

     38        12        26   

Interest expense and financing charges

     (41,542     (7,985     (33,557

Other income

     1,480        612        868   

Income tax provision

     2,909        2,315        (594
                        

Net income (loss)

   $ (18,654   $ 5,963      $ (24,617
                        

Revenue: Total revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2011 was $124.6 million compared to $58.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010, an increase of $66.4 million, or 114%. Contract drilling revenue totaled $86.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011 compared to $39.4 million for the same period in 2010, an increase of $47.4 million, or 120%. This increase was primarily due to the commencement of operations by our drillship, the Platinum Explorer, in late December 2010, together with the commencement of operations by two of our jackups, the Aquamarine Driller and the Topaz Driller, in January 2010 and March 2010, respectively.

The following table sets forth selected contract drilling operational information for the periods indicated:

 

     Three Months Ended March 31,  
     2011     2010  

Jackups

    

Operating rigs, end of period

     4        4   

Available days (1)

     360        275   

Utilization (2)

     85.8     98.4

Average daily revenues (3)

   $ 120,281      $ 145,470   

Platinum Explorer

    

Operating rigs, end of period

     1        —     

Available days (1)

     90        —     

Utilization (2)

     93.5     —     

Average daily revenues (3)

   $ 588,563      $ —     

 

(1) Available days are the total number of rig calendar days in the period. Newbuild rigs are included upon acceptance by the client.
(2) Utilization is calculated as a percentage of the actual number of revenue earning days divided by the available days in the period. A revenue earning day is defined as a day for which a rig earns dayrate after commencement of operations.
(3) Average daily revenues are based on contract drilling revenues divided by revenue earning days. Average daily revenue will differ from average contract dayrate due to billing adjustments for any non-productive time, mobilization fees and demobilization fees.

Utilization of the jackup fleet was negatively impacted by the approximately 39 days out of service for the Sapphire Driller due to the force majeure of a contract in West Africa. The Platinum Explorer utilization was negatively impacted by equipment and software issues which are customarily incurred upon the commencement of operations for a newbuild drilling unit.

We record reimbursements from customers for rebillable costs and expenses as revenue and the related direct costs as operating expenses. For the three months ended March 31, 2011, reimbursable revenue was $33.9 million as compared to $14.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010, an increase of $19.5 million or 135%. This increase was primarily due to increased rebillable oversight activities on the construction projects.

 

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Operating expenses: Operating expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2011 were $77.4 million compared to $30.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010, an increase of $46.7 million, or approximately 152%. This increase was due in part to the commencement of the operations of the Platinum Explorer, in late December 2010, and to the operation of all four jackups for the full three months ending March 31, 2011. Additionally, $21.0 million of the increase related to deepwater construction oversight expenses, due to increased reimbursable activity costs.

General and administrative expenses: General and administrative expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2011 were $6.8 million as compared to $4.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010, an increase of $2.3 million. This increase primarily reflects additional requirements to support our expanded operations and to market our rigs on a worldwide basis with the growth of our drilling fleet.

Depreciation expense: Depreciation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2011 was $16.1 million as compared to $7.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010, an increase of $8.6 million. The increase was primarily due to the addition of the Platinum Explorer to our operating fleet.

Interest expense and financing charges: Interest expense and financing charges for the three months ended March 31, 2011 was $41.5 million compared to $8.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010, an increase of $33.6 million. The increase was primarily attributable to increased levels of debt outstanding in the three months ended March 31, 2011, due to the acquisition and commencement of operations on the Platinum Explorer. Additionally, in the first quarter of 2011, we incurred $2.0 million in fees for the amendment of the Aquamarine Term Loan . As all our owned rigs are now in service, we did not capitalize any interest for the three months ended March 31, 2011, as compared to total interest and amortization costs of $5.0 million capitalized for the three months ended March 31, 2010.

Income tax expense: Income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2011 was $2.9 million compared to $2.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010, an increase of $0.6 million. The increase was due primarily to increased revenue earned by the increased number of rigs operating in multiple foreign jurisdictions in the first quarter of 2011.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of March 31, 2011, we had working capital of approximately $100.2 million. Included in working capital is approximately $51.7 million of cash available for general corporate purposes. Additionally, we have restricted cash of $26.6 million related to the Aquamarine Term Loan, and have posted $1.1 million cash as collateral for bid tenders.

Short-term Debt As of March 31, 2011, we had short-term debt of approximately $6.0 million related to our financing of rig insurance premiums. These notes had annual interest rates of 3.3%.

Long-term Debt As of March 31, 2011, our long-term debt was composed of the following:

 

     March  31,
2011
     December  31,
2010
 
     
     (Unaudited)         
     (In thousands)  

11 1/2% Senior Secured Notes, net of discount of $31,513 and $33,304

   $ 968,487       $ 966,696   

Aquamarine Term Loan

     108,623         107,134   

F3 Capital note, net of discount of $29,294 and $30,350

     30,706         29,650   
                 
     1,107,816         1,103,480   

Less current maturities of long-term debt

     —           —     
                 

Long-term debt

   $ 1,107,816       $ 1,103,480   
                 

11 1/2% Senior Secured Notes

On July 30, 2010, a wholly-owned subsidiary (the “Issuer”) issued $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of its 11  1/2% Senior Secured Notes (the “Notes”) under an indenture. The Notes were issued at a price equal to 96.361% of their face value, and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, on a senior secured basis, by us. The

 

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original issuance discount, reported as a direct deduction from the face amount of the Notes, will be recognized over the life of the notes using the effective interest rate method. The yield to maturity interest rate is 12.5%. The Notes mature on August 1, 2015 and bear interest from the date of their issuance at the rate of 11.5% per year. Interest on outstanding notes is payable semi-annually in arrears, commencing on February 1, 2011. The net proceeds, after fees and expenses, of approximately $931.9 million were used to acquire the Platinum Explorer, retire certain outstanding debt and for general corporate purposes

The Notes may be redeemed, in whole or in part at specified redemption prices plus accrued and unpaid interest on the notes redeemed. If a change of control, as defined in the indenture, occurs, each holder of notes will have the right to require the repurchase of all or any part of its notes at a price equal to 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of repurchase. The indenture governing the Notes, among other things, limits the issuer of the notes and any future restricted subsidiaries’ ability, and in certain cases, our ability to: (i) incur or guarantee additional indebtedness or issue disqualified capital stock; (ii) create or incur liens; (iii) pay dividends, redeem subordinated indebtedness or make other restricted payments; (iv) transfer or sell assets; (v) incur dividend or other payment restrictions affecting restricted subsidiaries; (vi) consummate a merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of our assets or those of the Issuer; (vii) enter into transactions with affiliates; (viii) designate subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries; (ix) engage in businesses other than a business that is the same or similar to the current business and reasonably related businesses; and (x) take or omit to take any actions that would adversely affect or impair in any material respect the collateral securing the notes. As of March 31, 2011, there were no restricted subsidiaries. Our future subsidiaries may become restricted subsidiaries and guarantors under limited circumstances.

Aquamarine Term Loan

In September 2009, one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries entered into a loan with a lender for $100.0 million (the “Aquamarine Term Loan”). The Aquamarine Term Loan bears cash interest at 15% per annum and will mature September 3, 2014. The lender holds a first priority security interest in the Aquamarine Driller and is entitled to an assignment of certain of our rights under any contracts relating to the Aquamarine Driller. The Aquamarine Term Loan has a variety of covenants, including a financial covenant debt service coverage test at the wholly-owned subsidiary level, and administrative reporting requirements. We were in compliance with all financial covenants of the Aquamarine Term Loan at March 31, 2011. As of March 31, 2011, we had $26.6 million in escrow to fund future interest payments, as well as operational and maintenance costs related to the Aquamarine Driller. In February 2011 we amended the Aquamarine Term Loan to allow us to prepay and discharge the outstanding loan thereunder according to a determined prepayment schedule and waive certain requirements related to one of our drilling contracts.

F3 Capital Note

The F3 Capital Note bears interest at the rate of 5% per annum, accruing and compounding daily, and will mature 90 months from the issue date. The F3 Capital Note includes a contingent convertible feature, subject to shareholder vote. We originally valued the F3 Capital Note based on our then weighted average cost of capital resulting in a discounted present value of $27.8 million. The F3 Capital Note would become convertible into our ordinary shares upon approval by our shareholders at a conversion price of $1.10 per share, subject to customary anti-dilution covenants. At our shareholder’s meeting in January 2011, shareholders did not approve the conversion of the F3 Capital Note. There is also a preemptive right covenant that provides F3 Capital with the right to purchase a pro-rata portion of any equity or convertible debt that we offer so long as the F3 Capital Note is outstanding. Under the terms of the F3 Capital Note, if convertible, any principal amount that F3 Capital elects to convert would be reduced by any amounts owed by F3 Capital to Vantage International Management Company or Vantage Deepwater. If we do not repay the F3 Capital Note on its scheduled maturity date or upon the occurrence of certain customary default provisions, the interest rate on any amounts outstanding under the F3 Capital Note will rise to 10% per annum.

Contingent Obligations

We are subject to litigation, claims and disputes in the ordinary course of business, some of which may not be covered by insurance.

In September 2009, F3 Capital asserted that we had breached agreements and understandings with F3 Capital regarding the maximum number of ordinary shares we would sell in our public offering in August 2009. F3

 

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Capital indicated that it believed that it was damaged by the issuance of shares in excess of this amount. We disagree with F3 Capital’s assertions. We have worked to resolve these matters with F3 Capital and believe that we have done so to each party’s satisfaction, although no assurances can be given as to the ultimate resolution of this dispute.

We enter into operating leases in the normal course of business for office space, housing, vehicles and specified operating equipment. Some of these leases contain renewal options which would cause our future cash payments to change if we exercised those renewal options.

Critical Accounting Policies and Accounting Estimates

The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. While management believes current estimates are appropriate and reasonable, actual results could materially differ from those estimates. We have identified the policies below as critical to our business operations and the understanding of our financial operations. The impact of these policies and associated risks are discussed in this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations where such policies affect our reported and expected financial results.

Property and Equipment: Consists of the values of our drilling rigs, furniture and fixtures, computer equipment and capitalized costs for computer software. Drilling rigs are depreciated on a component basis over estimated useful lives ranging from five to thirty-five years on a straight-line basis as of the date placed in service. Other assets are depreciated upon placement in service over estimated useful lives ranging from three to seven years on a straight-line basis. When assets are sold, retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and the gain or loss is recognized.

Interest costs related to the financings of our jackups and the amortization of debt financing costs were capitalized as part of the cost of the respective jackups while they were under construction. We completed our jackup construction program in the first quarter of 2010. Interest costs were capitalized as part of the cost of the Platinum Explorer while the drillship was under construction. Total interest and amortization costs capitalized for the three months ended March 31, 2010 was $5.0 million. We did not capitalize any interest in the first quarter of 2011.

We evaluate the realization of property and equipment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. An impairment loss on our property and equipment exists when estimated undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition are less than its carrying amount. Any impairment loss recognized represents the excess of the asset’s carrying value over the estimated fair value.

Debt Financing Costs: Costs incurred with debt financings are deferred and amortized over the term of the related financing facility.

Revenue: Revenue is recognized as services are performed based on contracted dayrates and the number of operating days during the period.

In connection with a customer contract, we may receive lump-sum fees for the mobilization of equipment and personnel. Mobilization fees and costs incurred to mobilize a rig from one geographic market to another are deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of such contract, excluding any option periods. Costs incurred to mobilize a rig without a contract are expensed as incurred. Fees or lump-sum payments received for capital improvements to rigs are deferred and amortized to income over the term of the related drilling contract. The costs of such capital improvements are capitalized and depreciated over the useful lives of the assets.

We record reimbursements from customers for rebillable costs and expenses as revenue and the related direct costs as operating expenses.

Rig Certifications: We are required to obtain regulatory certifications to operate our drilling rigs and must maintain such certifications through periodic inspections and surveys. The costs associated with these certifications, including drydock costs, are deferred and amortized over the corresponding certification periods.

Income Taxes: Income taxes have been provided based upon the tax laws and rates in effect in the countries in which operations are conducted and income is earned. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are computed for differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities that will result in future taxable or

 

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deductible amounts and are based on enacted tax laws and rates applicable to the periods in which the differences are expected to affect taxable income. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred income tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.

Share-Based Compensation: We account for employee share-based compensation using the fair value method as prescribed under U.S. GAAP. Restricted share grants are valued based on the market price of our ordinary shares on the date of grant and the fair value attributable to share options is calculated based on the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The fair values are amortized to expense over the service period which is equivalent to the time required to vest the share options and share grants. We recognized approximately $0.9 million and $1.5 million of share-based compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Use of Estimates: The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. While management believes current estimates are appropriate and reasonable, actual results could differ from those estimates.

Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Market risk is the sensitivity of income to changes in interest rates, foreign exchanges, commodity prices, equity prices and other market driven rates or prices. Our rigs operate in various international locations. Although the risks associated with foreign exchange rates, commodity prices, and equity prices have not been significant in 2011, they could become more significant as our rigs are more fully utilized. We do not enter into derivatives or other financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

Interest Rate Risk: At March 31, 2011, we did not have any variable rate debt outstanding.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk. As our international operations expand, we will be exposed to foreign exchange risk. Our primary foreign exchange risk management strategy involves structuring customer contracts to provide for payment in both U.S. dollars, which is our functional currency, and local currency. The payment portion denominated in local currency is based on anticipated local currency requirements over the contract term. Due to various factors, including customer acceptance, local banking laws, other statutory requirements, local currency convertibility and the impact of inflation on local costs, actual foreign exchange needs may vary from those anticipated in the customer contracts, resulting in partial exposure to foreign exchange risk. Fluctuations in foreign currencies have not had a material impact on our overall results. If we find ourselves in situations where payments of local currency do not equal local currency requirements, foreign exchange derivative instruments, specifically foreign exchange forward contracts, or spot purchases, may be used to mitigate foreign currency risk. A foreign exchange forward contract obligates us to exchange predetermined amounts of specified foreign currencies at specified exchange rates on specified dates or to make an equivalent U.S. dollar payment equal to the value of such exchange. We do not enter into derivative transactions for speculative purposes. At March  31, 2011, we did not have any open foreign exchange derivative contracts.

Item 4.   Controls and Procedures

Disclosure controls and procedures are controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported, within the time periods specified by the SEC rules and forms.

We carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, such officers have concluded that the design and operation of these disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of March 31, 2011 to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed on our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act was (1) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure and (2) recorded, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

 

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There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) during the most recent fiscal quarter that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II—OTHER INFORMATION

Item 6.  Exhibits

 

Exhibit
No.

  

Description

31.1    Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302*
31.2    Certification of Principal Financial and Accounting Officer Pursuant to Section 302*
32.1    Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906*
32.2    Certification of Principal Financial and Accounting Officer Pursuant to Section 906*

 

* Filed herewith.

 

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized

 

VANTAGE DRILLING COMPANY

By:

 

/s/ DOUGLAS G. SMITH

  Douglas G. Smith
  Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
  (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
 

Date: May 10, 2011

 

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