How difficult would it be to convert modern fishing trawlers into combat patrol vessels during a global war?
Short answerThe hull conversion is possible, but weapons supply, power generation, and integration would be difficult; minelaying may be the most practical role.
NotesLarge fishing vessels offer cargo volume, open internal spaces, cranes, and room for containerized or drone-based systems. Adapting a hull is easier in theory than supplying weapons suitable for the ranges and threats of a modern war. Weapon production capacity and electrical generation would constrain the conversion. Practising a few conversions in peacetime would test the arrangement before wartime reliance on it. Minelaying is proposed as a practical role because it uses handling and storage features already present in the ships.