What ship-design lesson might future wars force navies to relearn?
Short answerAmphibious operations require dedicated transport; the payload and landing problem cannot be assumed away or delegated to ordinary shipping.
NotesEighteenth-century transports could move infantry more easily than cavalry or heavy equipment, but the problem has become more demanding rather than disappearing. Horses and artillery imposed special burdens even when most troops could disembark under their own power. Modern forces need vessels designed around the vehicles, landing craft, and support they must carry. The lesson connects historical expeditionary constraints to present procurement choices.