SLB Wins Major Drilling Contract for Trion Project
Global energy technology company SLB has secured a significant drilling contract from Woodside Energy (NYSE: WDS) for its ultra-deepwater Trion development project, located offshore Mexico. This contract marks a crucial milestone in the collaboration between SLB and Woodside Energy, as the two companies work together to bring the challenging Trion field into production. The project is expected to set new industry benchmarks in operational efficiency and deepwater drilling innovation.
SLB has been entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the delivery of 18 ultra-deepwater wells, leveraging an integrated services approach enhanced by AI-driven drilling capabilities. This initiative aims to optimize operational efficiency and ensure high well quality, reinforcing SLB’s reputation as a global leader in deepwater drilling technology. The comprehensive scope of work under this contract includes digital directional drilling services, logging while drilling (LWD), surface logging, cementing, drilling and completions fluids, completions, and wireline services.
Trion’s drilling operations are set to take place in water depths reaching up to 2,500 meters, posing unique technical and environmental challenges. The extreme depths and pressures require state-of-the-art technologies and meticulous planning to ensure the safety and success of the project. SLB’s Offshore Atlantic President, Wallace Pescarini, highlighted the company’s extensive experience in ultra-deepwater drilling projects, emphasizing the role of AI and digitally enabled hardware in enhancing efficiency and reliability. Pescarini also underscored SLB’s commitment to local workforce development and supply chain investment in Mexico, ensuring that the project is executed on schedule while contributing to the regional economy.
The contract’s execution will be supported by SLB’s Performance Live™ digital service delivery centers. These centers play a critical role in remote operations, providing real-time data analysis, decision-making support, and performance optimization throughout the drilling process. This digital infrastructure enhances operational efficiency, reduces downtime, and minimizes the need for extensive on-site personnel, thereby improving safety and cost-effectiveness.
SLB’s involvement in the Trion project extends beyond drilling services. The company had previously secured a major contract from Woodside in 2023 through its OneSubsea™ joint venture. This earlier contract included the supply of subsea horizontal trees, controls, and topside equipment, all of which are integral to the subsea production system. The manufacturing of these components remains on schedule, ensuring a seamless transition into the next phase of development.
The Trion development project itself is a landmark initiative in Mexico’s offshore energy sector. As one of the country’s most ambitious deepwater projects, Trion represents a strategic effort to unlock Mexico’s untapped hydrocarbon resources in the Gulf of Mexico. Originally discovered by BHP Billiton in 2012, the field was later taken over by Woodside Energy following its merger with BHP’s petroleum business. Trion’s development is expected to boost Mexico’s energy production capacity and contribute significantly to its economic growth.
The success of the Trion project hinges on advanced drilling technologies, robust engineering solutions, and strategic partnerships. By integrating AI-enabled tools and real-time data analytics, SLB aims to enhance decision-making, mitigate drilling risks, and optimize well placement. These technological advancements are particularly crucial given the complexities of drilling in ultra-deepwater environments, where high pressures and unpredictable geological formations present formidable challenges.
Moreover, SLB’s expertise in cementing and well integrity management will be instrumental in ensuring the long-term reliability of the wells. Effective cementing is critical in preventing wellbore instability and ensuring zonal isolation, particularly in deepwater fields where the risk of gas migration and pressure fluctuations is heightened. SLB’s cutting-edge cementing technologies and materials will play a key role in maintaining well integrity throughout the production lifecycle.
The Trion project also aligns with broader industry trends toward digitalization and automation in offshore drilling. The deployment of AI-driven solutions not only enhances efficiency but also reduces environmental impact by minimizing energy consumption and operational emissions. By utilizing predictive analytics, machine learning algorithms, and automated drilling systems, SLB is pioneering a new era of smart drilling operations that set the standard for future offshore developments.
Beyond technological advancements, SLB’s commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility is evident in its approach to the Trion project. The company is actively working to minimize the environmental footprint of its operations through improved drilling techniques, reduced waste generation, and enhanced emissions management. Additionally, SLB is fostering collaboration with local suppliers and workforce development programs, reinforcing its dedication to the communities in which it operates.
The Trion development is poised to be a game-changer in Mexico’s offshore oil and gas industry. With first production targeted for the late 2020s, the project is expected to contribute significantly to Mexico’s crude oil output while strengthening the country’s position as a key player in the global energy market. The successful execution of SLB’s drilling contract will be instrumental in achieving these goals, ensuring that Trion is developed safely, efficiently, and sustainably.
As the industry watches the progress of the Trion project, SLB’s role as a leader in deepwater drilling continues to be reinforced. The company’s ability to integrate cutting-edge technologies, advanced engineering solutions, and strategic partnerships positions it at the forefront of offshore energy development. By driving innovation and operational excellence, SLB is not only advancing the Trion project but also shaping the future of ultra-deepwater drilling on a global scale.
The awarding of this contract further cements SLB’s reputation as a trusted partner in complex offshore developments. With its extensive portfolio of deepwater projects and a strong track record of delivering results, SLB remains a key player in the evolution of offshore energy. As operations commence in early 2026, the industry will be closely monitoring the impact of SLB’s technological expertise on the successful execution of the Trion project, setting a precedent for future deepwater endeavors.
