Woodside and PEMEX officially launched the drilling campaign at the Trion Field, one of the most ambitious ventures for ultra-deepwater oil development in the Gulf of Mexico. With an estimated production of 100,000 barrels per day, the project is expected to become operational in 2028, following progress as planned after the final investment decision (FID) was made in 2023.
Technical details of drilling and production
The campaign involves the execution of 24 subsea wells that will be connected to a floating production unit (FPU) named Tláloc, which has the nominal capacity to process 100,000 barrels of oil per day. Production will be stored in a floating storage and offloading (FSO) unit called Chalchi, with a capacity of up to 950,000 barrels.
Since its planning, the Trion project has been a joint initiative where Woodside acts as operator with a 60% stake, and PEMEX holds the remaining 40%. The collaboration between both entities aims not only to extract oil but also to strengthen national energy security and boost local economies in the northeast of the country.
The drilling is being carried out by the Deepwater Thalassa, a deepwater drilling rig operated by Transocean. This vessel arrived in Mexican waters on March 5, 2026, and is supported by a fleet of supply vessels operating from ports in Tamaulipas, generating logistical opportunities and strengthening regional value chains.
Economic and logistical impact in Mexico
It is estimated that the drilling campaign at the Trion Field will contribute over $10 billion to the country in taxes and royalties during its operational life. Additionally, it will generate direct and indirect employment and increase the participation of national suppliers in the oil value chain.
The use of local infrastructure and services in Tamaulipas will also strengthen regional supply chains, consolidating a development model that combines operational efficiency with positive economic impact.
Outlook for 2028
Since the FID approval, engineering, procurement, and planning activities have progressed according to schedule. Stephane Drouaud, Woodside’s Vice President for the Trion Project, emphasized that the team has managed to stay on track thanks to systematic and safe execution.
With the horizon set for 2028, Woodside and PEMEX continue to advance a project that reinforces Mexico’s role in the global energy landscape and marks a new chapter in deepwater exploration and production.
Source: Woodside