But is there a way we can create the necessary economic and logistic system to simulate convoys and the like?
As a side note, would it not make sense for each ship to have a 'supply' rating. At a base, a ship loads up with a maximum amount of 'general supplies', and as a ship moves and conducts missions, it consumes those supplies. Thus, it would be necessary that a ship return to dock or rendevous with a convoy to replenish those supplies. If a ship runs out of supplies, its combat effectiveness drops dramatically.
I guess we could make it even more complicated an have a 'fuel' rating (or even a matter and anti-matter system...)