MV Ocean Trader offers a credible merchant conversion as a support ship. Its roll-on/roll-off hull provides hangar space, accommodation for up to 200 special-operations personnel, helicopter facilities, boats, and possible drone support. A medium power could buy a vessel overtaken commercially by larger ships that remains economical to operate and maintain. Such a ship could support an amphibious task group and extend its reach, although it lacks the heavy landing-craft capability needed to replace that group. It should not operate alone in a high-threat environment. Drone launch arrangements would depend on the aircraft chosen, with some needing no catapult at all.
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MV Ocean Trader as a littoral support ship
A second-hand commercial hull can extend an amphibious force's reach with helicopters, boats, and personnel, subject to heavy-equipment and threat limits.