What would be needed to outfit a privateer today?
Short answerThe priorities are a survivable, well-subdivided hull and concealed rapid-fire guns suitable for stopping and boarding merchant ships.
NotesThe proposed privateer uses a civilian-looking research-vessel or yacht hull to conceal its purpose until an ambush begins. Warship-level subdivision and internal protection would improve survivability without advertising a conventional combatant. Hidden 57 mm and 40 mm rapid-fire guns suit a mission that aims to stop and board merchant ships while preserving the prize. The thought experiment shows how mission goals determine armament, protection, appearance, and engagement tactics.