Firstly, thank you all for your comments and the compliments:)
However, I've taken your advise and this is an update on the Minelayer:
Made an overwing style construction on the vessel to add some shielding from attacks. However this ship is definately not made for actually fighting other vessels due to the sheer danger of their cargo. As such it does not need over the top armour etc but it has got several reinforced plates and other things added so it has a bulkier and stronger look to it. The overwing ought not to be longer I figured since if they were to deploy one of those mines, they would need to keep well clear of it on all sides. So having a small gap for it to go out of wasn't the smartest idea I figured:P
Again comments are very welcome!