TechnipFMC has been awarded a contract by Italian major Eni for the Baleine Phase 3 fast-track development offshore Ivory Coast, according to Splash247. The deal is valued as significant, falling between $75 million and $250 million, and was included in inbound orders in the second quarter of 2026.
Contract Details and Scope
TechnipFMC will design and manufacture flexible flowlines and risers to connect wells at a water depth of approximately 1,200 metres to a new floating production unit. The financial terms were left vague, but the company classified the award as significant, a category typically indicating a contract value of $75 million to $250 million. This award follows China's Wison New Energies being officially awarded the EPCIC contract for the Baleine Phase 3 FPSO.
Production Capacity and Supply Implications
The FPSO facility will operate at water depths of approximately 800–1,200 metres and is designed to process up to 90,000 barrels of oil per day, 80,000 barrels of produced water per day, and 160 million cubic feet of natural gas per day, with a design life of at least 20 years, Splash247 reported. For commodity traders, this new production capacity adds to non-OPEC supply from West Africa, potentially influencing crude oil flows and differentials. The Baleine field is described as the largest hydrocarbon discovery offshore Ivory Coast.
| Parameter | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Oil production | 90,000 bpd |
| Produced water | 80,000 bpd |
| Natural gas | 160 million cf/d |
| Design life | 20 years |
| Water depth | 800–1,200 m |
Key Players and Project Timeline
Eni, the Italian oil and gas major, is the operator of the Baleine development. TechnipFMC is providing subsea production systems, while Wison New Energies handles the FPSO topsides and hull. The contract was booked in Q2 2026, indicating the project is moving forward on a fast-track basis. No specific start-up date was disclosed.
Outlook for West African Oil Supply
Baleine Phase 3 will significantly boost Ivory Coast's oil output, which previously had limited production. The 90,000 bpd capacity represents a substantial addition to global supply, though timing depends on project execution. Traders will monitor further updates on construction milestones and any potential delays. The contract award underscores continued investment in West African offshore oil, despite global energy transition pressures.
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