Sentinel Midstream LLC has announced the official commencement of its Texas GulfLink deepwater port project, a major infrastructure development aimed at expanding the United States’ crude oil export capabilities and strengthening long-term energy trade partnerships with global markets. The project moves forward with financial backing secured under the US–Japan Trade Agreement and in coordination with the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Government of Japan.
The initiative represents a strategic collaboration focused on enhancing energy security, expanding export infrastructure, and supporting reliable energy supply chains for allied nations. Sentinel Midstream will oversee the complete development of Texas GulfLink, including engineering, construction, commercial operations, and long-term management of the offshore export terminal.
Located approximately 30 miles off the coast near Freeport, Texas, the Texas GulfLink terminal is designed to handle Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) directly offshore. Once operational, the facility will allow full-capacity loading of VLCCs without the need for lightering operations, improving export efficiency while lowering operational costs and associated emissions. The commencement of construction follows funding support provided under Executive Order 14345, signed in September 2025, highlighting continued international confidence in American energy infrastructure and export potential.
US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick said the project reflects the growing impact of the U.S.-Japan trade partnership and will help drive investment, employment, and energy infrastructure growth along the Gulf Coast. He added that the project supports the delivery of affordable and efficient energy supplies while strengthening America’s energy leadership.
Texas Senator John Cornyn described the development as a major boost for the state’s economy and energy sector, noting that the project is expected to create well-paying jobs in Brazoria County while contributing billions of dollars in crude oil exports.
Senator Ted Cruz stated that the project demonstrates Texas’ critical role in supporting American energy exports and global energy partnerships. He noted that federal support for deepwater port approvals has been instrumental in advancing infrastructure investments of this scale.
Congressman Randy Weber said the terminal highlights the Gulf Coast’s importance as a global energy hub supported by world-class infrastructure, skilled labour, and strategic international partnerships. Jeff Ballard, Chief Executive Officer of Sentinel Midstream, said the project will strengthen the United States’ position as a dependable energy supplier by providing a direct export pathway from one of the world’s largest crude oil hubs to international markets. Once completed, Texas GulfLink is expected to support billions of dollars in annual export value, improve the UStrade balance, and contribute to long-term economic growth across the Gulf Coast region.
Sentinel Midstream is a Dallas-headquartered energy infrastructure company engaged in the development and operation of integrated midstream assets. The company has extensive expertise in commercial development, project execution, and operational management across the energy value chain.
Through its affiliated entities, Sentinel owns and operates crude oil transportation and terminal infrastructure across Texas and Louisiana, supporting connectivity between US crude production, Gulf Coast refining hubs, and international export markets. Backed by Cresta Fund Management Sentinel combines institutional investment support with strong commercial partnerships and operational capabilities to deliver large-scale energy infrastructure projects.
