NEW YORK — Royal Dutch Shell Plc is idling its drilling program in Alaska’s Beaufort and Chukchi seas after one of its rigs was damaged in a "maritime incident related to strong weather conditions" following the 2012 drilling season, the company said Feb. 27.

"Our decision to pause in 2013 will give us time to ensure the readiness of all our equipment," upstream Americas director Marvin Odum said. "We continue to believe that a measured and responsible pace, especially in the exploration phase, fits best in this remote area."

However, the Hague, Netherlands-based company reiterated that it is committed to resuming exploration in the region in the future.