Although there are many successful applications of neural networks (NNs), however, there are still some drawbacks in using neural networks (NNs) in any control scheme. In this study an NN-based model is applied for a tension leg platform (TLP) system. A linear differential inclusion (LDI) state-space representation is constructed to represent the dynamics of the NN model. Control performance is achieved by using the parallel distributed compensation (PDC) scheme to ensure the stability of TLP systems subjected to an external wave force. In terms of the stability analysis, the linear matrix inequality (LMI) conditions are derived using the Lyapunov theory to guarantee the robustness design and stability of the TLP system. A simulation example based on practical data is given to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed fuzzy control approach. In the end, we discuss a practical application with field data on the wave properties and structural characteristics. The results indicate the efficiency and robustness of the proposed NN based approach. (C) 2012 Published by Elsevier B.V.