Could fast uncrewed VLS ships shadow a crewed combatant and return independently to port for reloads?
Short answerThey could, but long Pacific transits may require several shuttles for every one on station, plus command links and possibly crewed escorts for the return journey.
NotesThe concept is possible, but the force ratio is less attractive than a single companion ship suggests. A distant Pacific station might require several vessels in transit and another loading, turning a one-for-one companion into a much larger procurement. Each uncrewed ship must also retain communications through weather, failures, and satellite disruption. A crewed frigate may end up escorting the supposedly autonomous shuttles, adding another force demand to the solution.