ConocoPhillips Alaska has delivered first oil from its Coyote 3SX development in the Kuparuk River Unit (KRU) on Alaska’s North Slope, achieving the milestone ahead of schedule and under budget.
The approximately US$800 million (AU$1.22 billion) development received initial funding approval in October 2025, with major construction commencing early this year.
Located on State land, the project leverages existing local infrastructure in the KRU to efficiently bring new supply online while minimising operational overheads.
The project is projected to reach an expected gross peak oil production rate of 12,000 barrels per day as production ramps up throughout the remainder of 2026 and beyond.
Erec Isaacson, president of ConocoPhillips Alaska, commended the operational execution and highlighted the importance of the expansion.
“Coyote 3SX demonstrates our commitment to maximising the value of our legacy assets while continuing to deliver safe, reliable domestic production,” Isaacson said.
“The additional pipeline required for the project will support increased production from Coyote as volumes rise in 2026 and beyond.”
By integrating with existing North Slope processing facilities, the satellite development boosts overall throughput for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System (TAPS) while generating economic returns for local, state, and federal authorities.
The achievement forms part of ConocoPhillips Alaska’s broader strategy to invest around US$1 billion annually into maintaining and expanding its Alaskan legacy portfolio.
Company executives underscored that maintaining a stable, predictable fiscal framework remains essential to underpinning future long-term capital investments, local employment, and ongoing economic returns for the region.