The COASTAL DRILLER is elevated to an air gap of 25 feet in 250 feet of water. The current is 2 knots and the waves are 30 feet. The maximum leg reaction is 6,120 kips. What is the maximum wind for drilling operations?

Correct Answer: Option D — 40 knots

Operating envelopes for self-elevating drilling units are governed by combined environmental loading limits. Given an air gap of 25 feet, 250-foot water depth, 2-knot current, 30-foot waves, and maximum leg reaction of 6,120 kips, the allowable wind speed for drilling operations is restricted to 40 knots.