IODP uses multiple drilling platforms to access different sub-seafloor environments during research expeditions. Three Implementing Organizations in the United States, Japan, and Europe serve as platform operators for the following:

1. Riser drilling with D/V Chikyu –

Operated and managed by The Center for Deep Earth Exploration (CDEX) within The Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC)

For more information, visit http://www.jamstec.go.jp/chikyu/eng/CHIKYU/index.html

2. Riserless drilling with JOIDES Resolution –

Operations are managed by U.S. Implementing Organization (USIO)

For more information, visit http://joidesresolution.org/

3. Mission Specific Platforms –

ECORD Science Operator (ESO) formed by ECORD representing 18 nations undertakes MSP operations for IODP.

For more information, visit http://www.iodp.org/ships/platforms