There may be a simple, but peculiar solution for that. There is now a metal version of Velcro, called “Metaklett”, which can support loads of up to 35 tons per square meter.
Of course, adapting such technology to quickly connect and disconnect ships at sea would keep the ONR busy for a while, but the potential is there. Plus the desirability of having a convenient rear area port facility should not be underestimated. In addition to surface ships, its design could even permit some degree of discreet access to submarines.
The concept reminds me of the mulberries used on D-day, only these would be self-propelled and intended to stay afloat.
Still, if it came to a shooting war, catching one of these platforms assembled or just getting on the move with a nuclear-tipped torpedo would be the equivalent of nailing the Japanese carriers at Midway.
It would be as much a strategic decision as a tactical one to decide how large a basket one wanted to place the eggs in.