Euronaval 2026: MTG Dolphin to build MLC 36 Proteus USV

A model of MTG Dolphin's MLC 36 Proteus USV, displayed at Euronaval 2026. (Devrim Yaylali)

Bulgarian shipbuilder MTG Dolphin displayed a model of its future MLC 36 Proteus modular, optionally manned/unmanned surface vehicle (USV), designed to perform multiple naval missions using interchangeable, containerised mission modules, at the Euronaval 2026 exhibition held in Paris from 3-6 November.

Vladislav Karadenchev, head of the commercial department for shipbuilding at MTG Dolphin told Janes that the company was planning to build a demonstration vessel for the Bulgarian Naval Force at the beginning in 2027.

The vessel will be 37.2 m long, 8 m wide, and have a draught of 2 m. The vessel will have a range of 400 n miles at full speed and 1,500 n miles at economical speed.

The vessel will be fitted with a 30 mm remote weapon station (RWS), with 3D radar, fire control radar, and an open deck for a number of 20 foot mission modules. When manned there will be a crew of 6 on board.

It has four mission-module positions, each accommodating a 20-foot ISO container. The maximum payload capacity is approximately 25 tonnes. MTG Dolphin envisages the modules as be exchangeable within 1–2 hours using standardised connections and twist-lock fittings.

According to the company, the vessel can be equipped with surface-to-surface missiles, torpedoes and sonar systems for anti-submarine warfare. It can also serve as a launch platform for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other unmanned capabilities or containerised mission equipment.

The MLC 36 PROTEUS can operate alongside a larger vessel, acting as its mothership and controlling several USVs. Two or three vessels could operate together to form task groups for specific missions, including ASW and surface warfare, the company said.