The need for supply and support ships in a navy

The USNS Rainier in the Western Pacific Ocean during 2004. Author: U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman Patrick M. Bonafede.

The fleet replenishment vessel RFA Fort Rosalie at HMNB Plymouth Navy Days. Author: The original uploader was Dmgerrard at English Wikipedia.

The point of it all

Combat stores ships carry the fleets's refrigerated stores, dry provisions, technical spares, general stores, fleet freight, mail and replacement personnel\specialists.

Repair ships repair other ships, oilers give oil to other ships and ammunition ships give arms to both other ships and their crews, submarine tenders look after submarines and combat supply ships give war provisions to both other ships and their crews.

With out such support many navel engagements would be impossible since the main fleet needs it's ships would run out of fuel, spare parts, arms and gear. This is why a true world power needs a strong support service via it's auxiliary ships in order to have the global reach it desires.

Historical references

Both Napoleon Bonaparte and Frederick the Great were quoted as saying "An army marches on its stomach." This reflects the importance of forces (in their cases armies) being well-provisioned and fed.

Also see

1. The basic administrate bodies and organisations you need to run a country
2. A basic guide for setting up a 'Europe based' colony in a story, conworld, map game or althist

Sources

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