Several innovative drilling technologies have been recognised at the OTC 2026 Spotlight on New Technology Awards
They include:
KeyDrill Gyro While Drilling (GWD) System – This innovative technology ensures accurate trajectory control, enabling smooth and efficient drilling operations. It features a rugged, fully retrievable design that provides a revolutionary solution for downhole navigation by enabling accurate, dependable wellbore gyroscopic surveys as well as real-time gravity and north toolface measurements during drilling. Unaffected by magnetic interference, the system delivers exceptional precision and reliability. Moreover, the KGWD system integrates seamlessly with a range of MWD modules and LWD tools, including Resistivity tool, Azimuthal Gamma Tool, KPWD tool, and Rotary Steerable System (RSS).
OilStates MPD Drill Ahead Tool – An industry first, this tool streamlines managed pressure drilling (MPD) operations by allowing packer installation without removing and re-installing the drill string. Its notched piston-and-spring assembly eliminates the need for extra trips to the surface, significantly reducing downtime and operating costs during MPD equipment deployment.
SLB Retina at-bit imaging system – This groundbreaking technology redefines formation evaluation by converting measurements taken at the drill bit into high-quality borehole images. Retina system captures formation details to visualise and characterise layers, bedding dips, thin beds, fractures, and textural variations without interference from any type of drilling fluid. The raw data is processed to create a high-resolution borehole image for formation characterisation and rock properties qualification. In the Middle East, Retina revealed the presence of fractures and vugs (small cavities or pores within the rock) in carbonate formations, providing critical information for predicting and preventing mud losses. During another field test in the Middle East, the tool also provided high-resolution images of stylolites, which act as pressure barriers, allowing for a better understanding of productive zones.
CNPC USA Corporation — UltraSense — UHTHP Bit Intelligence – This technology integrates ultra-high-temperature sensors, electronics, and onboard storage into a drill bit to directly measure rock-bit drilling dynamics. Operating up to 420 °F and 30,000 psi, it enables measurements in ultra-deep HPHT wells. It records temperature, shock, vibration, and rotation to diagnose drilling dysfunctions, optimise performance, reduce downtime, and advance intelligent drilling and drill-bit design.
The OTC 2026 Spotlight on New Technology Awards celebrate the boldest advances shaping the future of offshore energy. 17 breakthrough technologies were highlighted that bring fresh thinkgin and real-world performance across drilling, completions, subsea systems, AI and more and are selected for originality, technical ingenuity, demonstrated results and commercial potential, promising to improve safety, efficiency and sustainability across the offshore value chain. From autonomous well construction and advanced bit intelligence to AI-driven geotechnical models and next-generation subsea push systems, the lineup underscores how rapid technological progress is unlocking new possibilities for operators and service providers alike.
The 2026 Spotlight on New Technology winners were honoured at the OTC show at NRG Center in Houston, Texas, on Monday, 4 May.
Innovative drilling technologies recognised at OTC Awards
SLB's solution provides precise measurements at the critical point of first contact between the drill bit and the formation, providing unsurpassed image clarity. (Image source: SLB)
