The objective of this project is to develop advanced drilling systems which employ thermally stable diamond (TSP) drill bits. New TSP diamond cutters are to be capable of reducing overall system costs by increasing rates of penetration and bit life in abrasive and hard rock applications. Improved performance of unique TSP diamond cutters has been demonstrated in the laboratory, and field tests are planned. The CSS (continuous shelf sharpening) cutter design produced under this DOE FETC project has demonstrated the potential to double both rate of penetration and bit life. Abrasive and hard rock drilling costs could be reduced by about 15%, and the overall drilling project cost could be reduced by 7.5%. Thus, there is the opportunity to allow economic development of remaining natural gas and oil resources in the U.S., and strengthen the development of the U.S. Drilling Industry.