Repair ships, depot ships, store ships, and tenders describe overlapping functions rather than rigid categories. A flotilla may need accommodation, stores, specialist workshops, and personnel that its individual ships cannot fit aboard. The central logistics question is whether the combat ships can sustain themselves without an extra hull. This functional vocabulary makes it easier to judge auxiliaries by the capability they provide despite inconsistent official labels.
Chapter · 7:52-9:03
Why fleets need repair and support ships
The opening definition separates repair ships, depot ships, store ships, and tenders while identifying the common problem they solve: small warships cannot carry every spare or specialist they need.