MTW Italian Light Infantry
| Italian Light Infantry | |
|---|---|
| Unit Type: | Spearmen |
| Combat Stats | |
| Charge: | 5 |
| Attack: | 0 |
| Defence: | 3 |
| Armour: | 3 |
| Shield: | Large |
| Speed: | 6, 10, 11 |
| Morale: | 2 |
| Unit Costs | |
| Recruitment: | 400 |
| Faction Discount: | Italians |
| Upkeep: | 62 |
| Unit Restrictions | |
| Factions: | Italians |
| Buildings Needed: | Spearmaker's Guild |
| Unit Card: | 
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Unit Description
Italian Light Infantry are available only to the Italians and are one of the best spear units in the campaign. In the Early period, they outclass all other spear units, and can be used fairly aggressively in battle. Once the High period comes, they are still better than Chivalric Sergeants, having a better attack and morale rating. They should be used just like most spear units, holding the line, taking cavalry charges, and pinning enemy units until the flanking units are in place. With their large shield and higher armour, they are less susceptible to missile weapons than basic spears.
It is important for spear units to be in formation to perform their role adequately. Spear units get up to 2 supporting ranks, so they should have at least 4 ranks total across the face of the formation (3 ranks fighting plus an extra for spares). The unit should be in Hold Formation to keep these ranks orderly, the rank bonus is more important than any extra attacks that will come from the Engage at Will formation. The unit should not be set in trees, as the trunks will break up the formation and ruin the supporting ranks effect. Charging with spears can make the formation disorderly.
