API Spec 17F is applicable to design, fabrication, testing, installation and operation of subsea production control systems.

17F covers surface control system equipment, subsea-installed control system equipment and control fluids. This equipment is utilized for control of subsea production of oil and gas and for subsea water and gas injection services. Where applicable, this part of ISO 13628 may be used for equipment on multiple-well applications.

This part of ISO 13628 establishes design standards for systems, subsystems, components and operating fluids in order to provide for the safe and functional control of subsea production equipment. This part of ISO 13628 contains various types of information related to subsea production control systems. They are:
- informative data which provide an overview of the architecture and general functionality of control systems for the purpose of introduction and information;
- basic prescriptive data which must be adhered to by all types of control system;
- selective prescriptive data which is control-system-type sensitive and need only be adhered to when it is relevant;
- optional data or requirements which need only be adopted when considered necessary either by the purchaser or the vendor.

This edition of API RP 17F is an identical adoption of ISO 13628-6.