MPL to deploy FET's subsea ROVs offshore West Africa

Nigerian oil and gas firm Marine Platforms (MPL) has signed a contract with Forum Energy Technologies (FET) to deploy new generation work class remotely operated vehicles offshore West Africa 

Set to be delivered by May 2026, the contract allows MPL to secure two of FET's subsea XLX EVO III models to oversee intra-operational functions. The product line promises cutting-edge ultra-heavy-duty subsea vehicle technology, designed to undertake a broad spectrum of underwater tasks. The 4000m ROVs will be equipped with larger thrusters for increased through water performance and an improved buoyancy package, facilitating a 350kg payload. 

FET will also be introducing a bolted frame -- which is now CNC-machined -- to provide an improved layout for maintenance access as well as tooling capability. Their through-frame-lift will increase to 4000kg, a rise of over 30% from the EVO II.

The XLX EVO III comes with updated pilot chairs and console as well as FET’s next-gen control software, ICE Unity, enabling remote operations and 24-hour support.

Kevin Taylor, FET’s vice president operations - subsea, said, “We are thrilled to be bringing our next generation work class ROV out of the testing pool and into action off the west African coast.

“Marine Platforms is a reliable and longstanding customer, and it’s a pleasure to continue to support the team’s operations. Africa is generally a difficult region to break into, but demonstrating FET’s latest technology in the field will bolster our presence.”