Halliburton, in collaboration with Aker BP, has achieved a major milestone in subsea completions with the first-ever umbilical-less tubing hanger installation on the Norwegian continental shelf, marking a significant advancement in offshore digital control technology.
The operation utilized Halliburton’s Enhanced Remote Operated Control System (eROCS) in conjunction with the Optime Tubing Hanger Orientation System (OTHOS). Together, the systems enabled precise orientation and installation of a vertical Christmas tree tubing hanger without the need for traditional umbilicals or standard orientation tools.
By replacing hydraulic and mechanical systems with digital hydraulic control, the project simplified planning and interface requirements, reduced operational complexity and risk, and improved rig flexibility — delivering cost and efficiency benefits for Aker BP’s offshore operations.
“This milestone moves the entire subsea industry forward and opens up new possibilities once out of reach,” said Josh Sears, Senior Vice President, Halliburton Drilling and Evaluation. “The successful installation reflects years of effort, bold ideas, and close teamwork with Aker BP. eROCS provides a proven solution for umbilical-less tubing hanger installations across all major offshore regions.”
Mads Rødsjø, Vice President, Drilling and Wells, Aker BP, added: “At Aker BP, we are committed to innovation that creates safer, more efficient, and more sustainable operations. The successful eROCS operation marks a major step towards digital subsea control—one that will benefit not only our projects, but the wider industry.”
The field validation of eROCS demonstrates Halliburton’s progress toward next-generation subsea digitalization and positions the technology as a platform for reducing cost, enhancing control, and improving reliability in future offshore completions.
The company said the successful installation underscores a broader industry shift toward digitally enabled subsea control systems that reduce reliance on umbilical infrastructure, streamline operations, and enable remote functionality.
