The United Kingdom subsea region can be segmented into three distinct geographical areas. First is the southern shallow-water section, which is predominantly natural gas, with water depth ranging from 30 to 75 m (100 to 250 ft). Second is the Central North Sea, comprising of reserves of both oil and natural gas, with water depth between 75 and 200 m (250 to 400 ft). The third area is the northern sector of the North Sea, which encompasses harsh environments with water depth over 200m (550 ft).

Most developments are small subsea tie-backs to fixed platforms. Exceptions include the CNR Kyle, ConocoPhillips Banff, and Shell Pierce fields that are all tied back to FPSO units.

FMC Technologies holds frame agreements with Talisman, CNR and Oilexco, all of whom have significant interests in the UK.