North American Rig Count Rises; Baker Hughes Reports Strong Orders
Industry data shows a weekly increase in active rigs as a major equipment provider cites robust demand, signaling potential upstream momentum.
North America added five rigs compared to the previous week, according to the latest rotary rig count from Baker Hughes. The data, reported by Rigzone, indicates the region has entered a rig addition streak as of July 28.
Separately, Baker Hughes posted a nearly 50 percent year-over-year increase in orders. Rigzone reported the company cited "robust demand across Power Systems and LNG, with particularly strong momentum in power generation." Strong equipment orders often precede increased upstream activity, as operators invest in new drilling programs.
In other operator news, the Barossa project shipped its first condensate cargo, approximately 300,000 barrels, to a refinery in Incheon, South Korea. The shipment was reported by Rigzone on July 28.
For Bakken operators, a rising North American rig count can reflect broader industry confidence and potentially higher service costs. Increased drilling activity in competing basins may influence capital allocation and rig availability in the Williston Basin. The strong order intake reported by Baker Hughes suggests sustained investment in oilfield services and equipment, which supports the infrastructure needed for drilling and completion operations.
The Bakken formation remains a key contributor to U.S. oil supply, and trends in continental rig activity are a closely watched indicator for the region's producers and service companies. The condensate shipment from the Barossa project, while not directly related to the Bakken, highlights the global market for light hydrocarbons.
Source
According to Rigzone reports published July 28, 2026.
