Neutral and Merchant Vessels include unarmed or lightly armed civilian and supply ships used in scenarios like convoy escort, amphibious landings, and trade disruption. They represent oil tankers, cargo ships, troop transports, hospital ships, and passenger liners. In Victory at Sea, they are used to simulate realistic objectives and strategic complications.

These vessels are typically non-combatants and used in scenario-based missions. Players might be tasked with escorting them to safety, intercepting enemy supply lines, or avoiding submarine ambushes. Some may have limited armament, but their value lies in the mission objectives they represent rather than combat ability.

While not necessary for casual skirmishes, merchant ships are essential for historical and campaign-style play. They provide a layer of realism and strategic pressure, especially when one player must defend a convoy while the other tries to sink it. These vessels turn a standard engagement into a story-driven encounter.

Many Victory at Sea missions focus on convoy protection or commerce raiding. Notable examples include Atlantic supply runs, Arctic convoys to the Soviet Union, and Mediterranean transport missions. These scenarios rely on merchant vessels to create narrative-driven goals beyond simple ship-to-ship combat.

Yes. In scenarios where neutral or civilian vessels are involved, players are often awarded or penalized victory points depending on their survival or destruction. This adds tension to matches and forces players to think beyond sinking enemy warships—protecting or intercepting transports becomes just as important.

Yes. Warlord Games produces several merchant vessel kits, including oil tankers, Liberty Ships, freighters, and liners. These models can also be used to proxy similar vessels in scenario play. While not heavily armed, they often feature detailed sculpts and are a great way to expand your battlefield with historical context.

Absolutely. In campaign settings, merchant vessels play a critical role in supply lines, troop movements, and mission progression. Whether you're running a narrative campaign or following official scenario books, including neutral and civilian ships adds realism and depth to extended Victory at Sea play.