I cant see Rowan, talking to the HR guy there, and they are wanting to build 10 drillships, and up until now have been a prety strong staple in the drilling industry (not deepwater of course). I think the problem with Diamond is all the old rigs they have, that no one really wants the trouble with, but have an excellent log of contracts, so that could be an option. I could see two of the smaller companies getting together, but Ensco and anybody else, I cant see it right now. I could see Dolphin, Ocean Rig (whom I have heard are in financial trouble), maybe Odfjell, Sevan (they were bankrupt once already), getting bought out, even throw Vantage in there, since they are so small and are vulnerable.
I agree with you, all of these newbuilds will get contracts, day rates will stay high, salaries will increase during the fighting of obtaining qualified experienced people, and this boom will go on, for many years to come. Cant beat that.