Besides (here we go
), Intent has to play a factor. If i build a small transport and max the sat/cargo for the sole purpose of attacking enemy planets and ships, then it is a warship, as I intend it for that purpose. Aside from whether or not I put an early PDC on it, it is still designed for battle. they also make nice fish hooks. The AI can't resist a transport thinking it will be an easy kill, but supprize is the blue plate special when they have to face 3 stacks of sats carrying seekers.
I don't design them for the main purpose of being a planet satellite/population carrier, altho they work nicely for that too.
Anyone else use designs/combinations like this early game?