KLAssurbanipal
08-17-2007, 17:46
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AUGUST UNITS PREVIEW
- 18 new units,
- units by KLA,
- text by Azaq, Szogun and Maximus
Hypaspistai (Keraunos Kingdom)
https://img517.imageshack.us/img517/8451/aw1lz4.th.jpg (https://img517.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw1lz4.jpg)
Hypaspistai it is unit recruited from Greek nobles, from strong man, with big vigour, is it trained in similarity to Peltasts. It is universal infantry, they create fully professional formation, in opposition to most of unit in Keraunos army. Long trainings in loose formation enabled them quick forming of different formations, that normal sarrisoforoi could not do in they tight formation. In contrast to other phalanx units they were trained in fighting with sword, but usually in battle they use spears. They play role of medium infantry units, military police or unit assigned for "special tasks". In dependence of situation they fight in lose formation (for example during attacks on a city) or (in big battles) as a part o phalanx line. In the diadochi armies they played the combat role, as the core of an army. Defeating Hypaspistai as a phalanx in front attack until they keep their formation is impossible for the enemy and breaking they formation do not guarantee the success. On the rough terrain, in the forest or in mountains this unit may easily break its formation and because of this be defeated, so one have to mind which way they are going. They are armed with iron plastrons, greaves, phrygian helmets, xiphoses, hoplon shields and spears so in battle they can stand against elite units. From members of Hypaspistai are chosen candidates for Guards, members of Royal Agema. Good general can made from Hypaspistai legendary unit, that is able to surpass in its achievements hoplites from Sparta or roman legions
Veneti Spearman
https://img253.imageshack.us/img253/3402/aw5gz6.th.jpg (https://img253.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw5gz6.jpg)
Spearmen are a core in Veneti tribe army. Chain mail, gallic helmet, large oval shield, long sword and spear - this is equipment of heavy Cisalpine Celtic infantry. They are efficient against cavalry and also against infantry because of their long swords. In charge with them they can clear the way to their target. Good iron chain mail and large shield defend them from many deadly strokes.
This unit many times troubled roman legionaries, glorified in that days. If you are planning an assault, robbery ride or conquest this unit is exactly what you need. Defending of settlement is also efficient when this unit fight but long swords and spears cause many problems in crowd on the walls and tight formation so when they are strong in attacks and they receive many strokes before they fall when the battle is long it is possible to come close to such Celtic warrior and deal him a mortal blow before he mange to use his terrifying, long weapon
Cretan Archers
https://img110.imageshack.us/img110/5721/aw9at3.th.jpg (https://img110.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw9at3.jpg)
Cretan archers are famous from their shooting skills. They do not just shoot to enemies they simply shower them with hail of arrows .They are suitable to decimate enemy lines, before the main battle will begin. One can also hide them behind the line of defensive units like spearmen. If they stay without protection they can be eliminated by cavalry or light skirmishers unit because they will not stand in hand-to-hand fight though they have light armours, smal shields and helmets. From the historical point of view, adjective "cretan" was more often associated with style of fighting then with place of origin - because of this many "cretan archers" do not come from Crete. That ones, that comes from there are in the mainland highly esteemed archery instructors.
Chaonian Guards
https://img267.imageshack.us/img267/1237/aw11vv5.th.jpg (https://img267.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw11vv5.jpg)
Chaonian Guards are personal guards of king of Epirus. They are recruited from the best warriors of Chaonian tribe, that passed long way of selection. In the opposition to another phalanx units they came through fighting with sword training. Long hours of fighting in lose formation enabled them quick forming of different formations, that normal sarrisoforoi could not do in they tight formation. In battle Guards usually use long spears, xiphoses have auxiliary role. They are armed with light armours, greaves, hoplon shields covered with bronze plates and phrygian helmets. They play role of medium infantry units, Royal Guards, military police or unit assigned for "special tasks". In dependence of conditions they fight in lose formation (for example during attacks on a city) or (in big battles) as a part o phalanx line. In the diadochi armies they played the combat role, as the core of an army. Defeating Chaonian Guards as a phalanx in front attack is impossible for the enemy and breaking they formation do not guarantee the success. On the rough terrain, in the forest or in mountains this unit during march may break its formation so one have to mind which way Guards are going. This unit has its origin in old Hypaspistes formation. In advantageous conditions, good terrain on the battlefield and talented commander they are able to erase from history all traces of all centuries of roman veterans.
Thesprotian Hoplites
https://img505.imageshack.us/img505/5747/aw10gf9.th.jpg (https://img505.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw10gf9.jpg)
Hoplites was once essential part of Greek military power. Macedonian phalanx pushed them back to minor role. Hoplites that are recruited from members of Thesprotians tribe, that are part of Epirotes Symmachy. They fight as a greek phalanx and they are very good unit to fight against light infantry or cavalry. Their tactics is simple: formation move close to enemy in standard arrangement, and after it they tighten formation, they form wall from shields and march in such order that shield of one hoplite partial protect the other one. They wear light armour, phrygian helmet, greaves, hoplon shields and long spears. Apart from this every hoplite has xiphoses but it is used only when fighting with spear is impossible. When they form their tight formation, their flanks and rear becomes very vulnerable. In long ago times during wars with Persians, hoplites were very experienced soldiers, and today they are great grandsons of old warriors that keep armours inherited after grandfathers and they hardly know how to use spear. Despite all this disadvantages Hoplites are good unit. They are well armed but they lack good training.
Spartan Hoplites
https://img413.imageshack.us/img413/432/aw18mv8.th.jpg (https://img413.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw18mv8.jpg)
Spartan Hoplites are "perfect soldiers", who from beginning of their lives are trained only with one purpose - to be the best soldiers in whole world. Their military service begins in the day of their birth and last until they will be buried. Children of Sparta citizens do not belong to their parents but to Kingdom of Lacedaemon. Infant is presented to Council of Elders - The Gerousia. If the child is healthy and strong has to become a soldier. Sickly and weak children are abandoned in Taygetos mountains. When Spartan come to an age of maturity he kneel in front of Artemis where he was whipped. The one who endured the most of all was the best Spartan. During they education they were taught brutality, laconic speech and everything that could improve them to keep formation and to kill enemies of their homeland. No one taught erudition to Spartan, democracy or theatrical dramas. Result of such education is a man that does not know fear, that has the will to be victorious, and only his figure frighten those who heard about Thermopylae. Spartans fight in traditional way - like the hoplites. They are armed with bronze armours, hoplon shields, long spears, greaves and phrygian helmets, they also have sword but they use them only when fighting with spear is impossible. They once was the best from Greeks fighting in phalanx formation.
None never was better in holding the lines, march in phalanx formation or using a spear better then them. They were very traditionalist and they did not come with the spirit of time. Once mighty country of Sparta now is only a small land without importance. Thanks to fanatic citizens of this poleis Sparta could defend themselves from attack of mighty Pyrrhus and from that time no one never tried to conquer Sparta, one only try to limit influences of Lacedaemon.
Syracusian Hoplites
https://img515.imageshack.us/img515/1475/aw3cw3.th.jpg (https://img515.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw3cw3.jpg)
Once, hoplites was the base of the strength of Greek polis and their colonies. Among these second ones, Syracuse itself made them own country on the Sicily. It doesn’t do without the good warriors, as hoplites are. Those soldiers was the wonderful power to fight with both infantry and cavalry. But the greatest time of hoplites ended with the death of heroes from Thermopylae and Syracuse. Despite that fact, hoplites are still the power of the battlefield. Their tactic is very simple: ranks are reaching the enemy in a normal order and then they are being closed, making the wall of shields, in the way that neighbor’s shields overlap each other. After that about the victory decide the fact, who first break enemies lines. Etruscan hoplites wear breastplate made of harden leather or strengthen linen, attic helmets with a comb, hoplons, kopises and long spears. They have also a sword at their side. However, it is used only when the spear is totally useless. Nowadays it is an unit out of date, easy to be defeated by Macedonian phalanx or even Aetolian highlanders. They are bad trained, easy fill with fear and fight without the spirit but they are really well equipped.
Leukaspides
https://img502.imageshack.us/img502/8264/aw2ld8.th.jpg (https://img502.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw2ld8.jpg)
Leukaspides - White Shields are elite infantry from Tarentum, greek colony in Italy.
Elite of Tarentum civilians are armed with the best amours "musculum", phrygian helmets, xiphoses, greaves, long spears and hoplon shields. They cover their shields and armours with silver or tin plates as a sign of they elitism. Only a nobleman can become a member of White Shields, he has to know how to swing a sword and he has to be vastly rich. Lekaspides fight as a phalanx of greek type. In that formation soldiers stand next to each other (but far enough from each other to be able to use spear freely). Number of rows can vary from 8 to 16, and 3 first ones keep their spears horizontally and form barrier from pikes. Other rows keep their spear slanted at 45 degrees (it has to protect them from arrows) and they press on front rows to give them additional strength to break enemy formation. Defeating Leukaspides from the front is very difficult, and it take a heavy toll of brave man lives, but flanks and rear of phalanx is high vulnerable to attacks. Also on the rough terrain, in the forest or in mountains this unit during march may break its formation easily and be defeated.
This unit do not surrender without fight and before they do it many of them will die in glory.
Athenian Hoplites
https://img523.imageshack.us/img523/9264/aw12ya4.th.jpg (https://img523.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw12ya4.jpg)
Hoplites recruited from wealthy Athenian citizens. Hoplites were the base of the Greek military power in the past. These soldiers, fighting in phalanx, were the best forces against cavalry or infantry. But their Golden Age has ended with the heroes from Thermopylae and Syracuse. Although hoplites are already a power in the battlefields. Their tactics is simple: formations approach to the enemy in normal order, than, in a close formation they make a wall of shields. The winner is the side, which breaks enemys’ formation first. They are armed with phrygian helmets, hoplons, long spears and a bronze armour plates named “musculum”. They have also xiphos with them, but they use it only in finality. Today it’s an obsolete unit, worse than Macedonian phalanx or even light aetolian highlanders. They are well-armoured, but poorly trained and have low morale.
Corinthian Hoplites
https://img45.imageshack.us/img45/2645/aw13sb6.th.jpg (https://img45.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw13sb6.jpg)
Hoplites once was essential part of all Greek military power. Fighting in greek phalanx those soldiers were perfect unit to fight against infantry or cavalry. But times of their splendour have gone with heroes from Thermopylae and Syracuse. Despite of this Hoplites are still strong power on the battlefield. Their tactics is simple: formation move close to enemy in standard arrangement, and after it they tighten formation, they form wall from shields and march in such order that shield of one hoplite overlap on the shield of one next to him. Later about victory decides only which side by strength will faster break the enemy formation. They are armed with light armour, chalcidian helmet with crest, xiphos, hoplon, greaves and long spears. Now it is already obsolete unit, they are not a challenge to macedon phalanx or even light aetolian highlanders. They are poorly trained, they panic easily and fight without a passion but they are well armed.
Macedonian Peltasts
https://img441.imageshack.us/img441/3043/aw14fw4.th.jpg (https://img441.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw14fw4.jpg)
Peltasts are universal soldiers in Macedonian army. They are recruited from the strongest man in the kingdom. Peltasts are fully professional formation, in contrast to nearly all another types of units in Macedon. Long trainings in loose formation enable them making various formations in a small period of time, which ordinary sarissophoroi, in their close formation, couldn’t make. In the opposite of another phalangits, Peltasts were trained in sword-fighting, but mostly they fight with their long spears. Peltasts are medium-armoured infantry, which is used as a military police, or a ‘special unit’. They can fight in loose formation (for example, in sieges) or as a part of a phalanx (in large battles). In Diadochi armies peltasts were main forces. Defeating them in phalanx isn’t possible, as long as they hold they formation, and even if they formation breaks, they are hard to defeat. On hills, in forests or mountains phalanx formation could easily break its formation, so they must care in which way they are moving. They are equipped in bronze breast plates, greaves, phrygian helmets, xiphos, hoplon shields and spears, so they are very similar to elite units. The formation of peltasts bases on hypaspists units. Candidats for royal guards, agema, are mostly chosen from peltasts. A good general could change these men in a legendary unit, more famous than Spartan hoplites or Roman legionaries.
Greek Hoplites
https://img409.imageshack.us/img409/7120/aw15jy8.th.jpg (https://img409.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw15jy8.jpg)
Hoplites once was essential part of all Greek military power. Fighting in greek phalanx those soldiers were perfect unit to fight against infantry or cavalry. But times of their splendour have gone with heroes from Thermopylae and Syracuse. Despite of this Hoplites are still strong power on the battlefield. Their tactics is simple: formation move close to enemy in standard arrangement, and after it they tighten formation, they form wall from shields and march in such order that shield of one hoplite overlap on the shield of one next to him. Later about victory decides only which side by strength will faster braek the enemy formation. They wear plastrons: linen or made from stiffen leather, boeotian helmets with crest, greaves hoplons, xiphoses and long spears. On the end of their spear there is a bronze spike that is driven to earth. When the spear breaks, that spike can be used as a weapon. Now it is already obsolete unit, they are not a challenge to Macedonian phalanx or even light Aetolian highlanders. They are poorly trained, they panic easily and fight without a passion but they are well armed.
Etruscan Hoplites
https://img409.imageshack.us/img409/2016/aw16ce0.th.jpg (https://img409.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw16ce0.jpg)
Greek colonies dispersed on the whole area of the Mediterranean Sea, were developing not only the culture and products of their craftsmen but the art of war, too. A lot of nations, and Etruscans among them, used and adapted Hellene’s fighting technique for them own needs. Etruscan Hoplites, like Greek ones, fight in the phalanx. That soldiers was the wonderful power to fight with both infantry and cavalry. But the greatest time of hoplites ended with the death of heroes from Thermopylae and Syracuse. Despite that fact, hoplites are still the power of the battlefield. Their tactic is very simple: ranks are reaching the enemy in a normal order and then they are being closed, making the wall of shields, in the way that neighbor’s shields overlap each other. After that about the victory decide the fact, who first break enemies lines. Etruscan hoplites wear breastplate made of harden leather or strengthen linen, attic helmets with a comb, hoplons, kopises and long spears. At the end of spear is a bronze thorn, being driven in the ground. When the core is broken, the thorn could be used as a weapon. Nowadays it is an unit out of date, easy to be defeated by Macedonian phalanx or even Aetolian highlanders. They are bad trained, easy fill with fear and fight without the spirit but they are really well equipped.
Ekdromoi
https://img50.imageshack.us/img50/2237/aw17bc3.th.jpg (https://img50.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw17bc3.jpg)
Ekdromoi is light infantry, suggestive to hoplites but they have weaker armed. They are recruited from peasants, and send to basic combat training and after it they are armed with hoplon shields, thracian helmets and spears. They are defensive type unit. They can be used to protect flanks because in the centre they would be useless. Poor morale, problems in holding regular formation or lack of good armour are reasons that, despite of that they are faster then phalanx, they can fight as equal only with poorly armed infantry and light cavalry. Their next disadvantages are weak flanks and rear. The only one advantage of Ekdromoi is low cost of training, speed and basic ability to form traditional greek phalanx. So till they hold the formation there is a hope they will keep they position.
Sacred Band Infantry
https://img102.imageshack.us/img102/8373/aw4gu5.th.jpg (https://img102.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw4gu5.jpg)
Sacred Band is an elite among Carthaginian forces. This unit id recruited from citizens and it is rather uncommon in mercenary army of Carthage in which there is plenty of Libyans and Numidians. Like in most of Mediterranean Sea countries, this heavy infantry fights in Greek phalanx formation. They are personal guards of generals and leaders of Punic nation. During long selection and in many years of experience they gained characteristic quiet and serious appearance, during fight they frighten their enemy because of tranquillity and calmness. Their tactics is simple: formation move close to enemy in standard arrangement, and after it they tighten formation, they form wall from shields shield of one soldier overlap on the shield of one next to him. Later about victory decides only which side by strength will faster break the enemy formation. They are armed with bronze plastron, phrygian helmet, hoplon shield, greaves and long spear. They also have xiphos to hand-to-hand fight, but they use it only when it is absolutely necessarily - when the spear is hindering fighting. Though they have greek type of weapons and style of fighting, ornamentation and strategy is different. Now, in comparison to macedon phalanx, it is already obsolete unit, but they still are able to great and glorious deeds.
Libyan Infantry
https://img338.imageshack.us/img338/377/aw6go4.th.jpg (https://img338.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw6go4.jpg)
Libyan infantry Kart Hadaszt army consists of the mercenaries from all over the world, but the main forces are formed from Libyans. We can say that they have a monopoly on service in Punic army. When the war begins, Carthaginian Councils calls their allies to send them army contingents. Libyan infantry is armoured with a light armour plate, thracian helmet, hoplon shield, a long spear and xiphos. They are equipped similar as Greeks, but they have different decorations. The way of fighting hadn't changed: formations approach to the enemy in normal order, than, in a close formation they make a wall of shields. The winner is the side, which breaks enemy’s' formation first. Libyan forces proved their usefulness many times, but the domination of foreigners in army causes arguments, if it's a Punic or Libyan army…
Poeni Infantry
https://img184.imageshack.us/img184/4346/aw7oc7.th.jpg (https://img184.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw7oc7.jpg)
Greek colonies spread in all costs of Mediterranean Sea were disseminating no only culture and products of craftsman but also art of war. Many nations, and Carthaginians among them used and adopted greek war technique to they own needs. Poeni infantry similar to greek ones fight in phalanx formation. Those soldiers where perfect unit to fight against infantry or cavalry. But times of their splendour have gone with heroes from Sicilian Wars. Despite of this Hoplites are still strong power on the battlefield. Their tactics is simple: formation move close to enemy in standard arrangement, and after it they tighten formation, they form wall from shields and march in such order that shield of one soldier overlap on the shield of one next to him. Later about victory decides only which side by strength will faster break the enemy formation. They wear iron chain shirts, thracian helmets, hoplons, xiphoses and long spears. This unit recruited from citizens spontaneously is last way of defence to the city of Dido. It is true that every citizen of Kart Hadaszt has a weapon in his house, but he inherited it after brave grandfathers he do not keep military tradition. Now it is already obsolete unit, they are not a challenge to macedon phalanx or roman legions. They are poorly trained, they panic easily and fight without a passion but they are well armed.
Romanized Libyan Infantry
https://img48.imageshack.us/img48/3711/aw8hp3.th.jpg (https://img48.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw8hp3.jpg)
Kart Hadaszt army consists of the mercenaries from all over the world, but the main forces are formed from Libyans. We can say that they have a monopoly on service in Punic army. When the war begins, Carthaginian Councils calls their allies to send them army contingents. Weapons and armours captured on Romans are better quality than Carthaginian ones. Although we can't specify equipment of these units, we can mainly define what they had: roman chain-armours, thracian helmets, scutum shields, long spears and xiphos. The way of fighting hadn't changed: formations approach to the enemy in normal order, than, in a close formation they make a wall of shields. The winner is the side, which breaks enemy’s' formation first. Libyan forces proved their usefulness many times, but the domination of foreigners in army causes arguments, if it's a Punic or Libyan army…
FACTION preview: ROME, soon
AUGUST UNITS PREVIEW
- 18 new units,
- units by KLA,
- text by Azaq, Szogun and Maximus
Hypaspistai (Keraunos Kingdom)
https://img517.imageshack.us/img517/8451/aw1lz4.th.jpg (https://img517.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw1lz4.jpg)
Hypaspistai it is unit recruited from Greek nobles, from strong man, with big vigour, is it trained in similarity to Peltasts. It is universal infantry, they create fully professional formation, in opposition to most of unit in Keraunos army. Long trainings in loose formation enabled them quick forming of different formations, that normal sarrisoforoi could not do in they tight formation. In contrast to other phalanx units they were trained in fighting with sword, but usually in battle they use spears. They play role of medium infantry units, military police or unit assigned for "special tasks". In dependence of situation they fight in lose formation (for example during attacks on a city) or (in big battles) as a part o phalanx line. In the diadochi armies they played the combat role, as the core of an army. Defeating Hypaspistai as a phalanx in front attack until they keep their formation is impossible for the enemy and breaking they formation do not guarantee the success. On the rough terrain, in the forest or in mountains this unit may easily break its formation and because of this be defeated, so one have to mind which way they are going. They are armed with iron plastrons, greaves, phrygian helmets, xiphoses, hoplon shields and spears so in battle they can stand against elite units. From members of Hypaspistai are chosen candidates for Guards, members of Royal Agema. Good general can made from Hypaspistai legendary unit, that is able to surpass in its achievements hoplites from Sparta or roman legions
Veneti Spearman
https://img253.imageshack.us/img253/3402/aw5gz6.th.jpg (https://img253.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw5gz6.jpg)
Spearmen are a core in Veneti tribe army. Chain mail, gallic helmet, large oval shield, long sword and spear - this is equipment of heavy Cisalpine Celtic infantry. They are efficient against cavalry and also against infantry because of their long swords. In charge with them they can clear the way to their target. Good iron chain mail and large shield defend them from many deadly strokes.
This unit many times troubled roman legionaries, glorified in that days. If you are planning an assault, robbery ride or conquest this unit is exactly what you need. Defending of settlement is also efficient when this unit fight but long swords and spears cause many problems in crowd on the walls and tight formation so when they are strong in attacks and they receive many strokes before they fall when the battle is long it is possible to come close to such Celtic warrior and deal him a mortal blow before he mange to use his terrifying, long weapon
Cretan Archers
https://img110.imageshack.us/img110/5721/aw9at3.th.jpg (https://img110.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw9at3.jpg)
Cretan archers are famous from their shooting skills. They do not just shoot to enemies they simply shower them with hail of arrows .They are suitable to decimate enemy lines, before the main battle will begin. One can also hide them behind the line of defensive units like spearmen. If they stay without protection they can be eliminated by cavalry or light skirmishers unit because they will not stand in hand-to-hand fight though they have light armours, smal shields and helmets. From the historical point of view, adjective "cretan" was more often associated with style of fighting then with place of origin - because of this many "cretan archers" do not come from Crete. That ones, that comes from there are in the mainland highly esteemed archery instructors.
Chaonian Guards
https://img267.imageshack.us/img267/1237/aw11vv5.th.jpg (https://img267.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw11vv5.jpg)
Chaonian Guards are personal guards of king of Epirus. They are recruited from the best warriors of Chaonian tribe, that passed long way of selection. In the opposition to another phalanx units they came through fighting with sword training. Long hours of fighting in lose formation enabled them quick forming of different formations, that normal sarrisoforoi could not do in they tight formation. In battle Guards usually use long spears, xiphoses have auxiliary role. They are armed with light armours, greaves, hoplon shields covered with bronze plates and phrygian helmets. They play role of medium infantry units, Royal Guards, military police or unit assigned for "special tasks". In dependence of conditions they fight in lose formation (for example during attacks on a city) or (in big battles) as a part o phalanx line. In the diadochi armies they played the combat role, as the core of an army. Defeating Chaonian Guards as a phalanx in front attack is impossible for the enemy and breaking they formation do not guarantee the success. On the rough terrain, in the forest or in mountains this unit during march may break its formation so one have to mind which way Guards are going. This unit has its origin in old Hypaspistes formation. In advantageous conditions, good terrain on the battlefield and talented commander they are able to erase from history all traces of all centuries of roman veterans.
Thesprotian Hoplites
https://img505.imageshack.us/img505/5747/aw10gf9.th.jpg (https://img505.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw10gf9.jpg)
Hoplites was once essential part of Greek military power. Macedonian phalanx pushed them back to minor role. Hoplites that are recruited from members of Thesprotians tribe, that are part of Epirotes Symmachy. They fight as a greek phalanx and they are very good unit to fight against light infantry or cavalry. Their tactics is simple: formation move close to enemy in standard arrangement, and after it they tighten formation, they form wall from shields and march in such order that shield of one hoplite partial protect the other one. They wear light armour, phrygian helmet, greaves, hoplon shields and long spears. Apart from this every hoplite has xiphoses but it is used only when fighting with spear is impossible. When they form their tight formation, their flanks and rear becomes very vulnerable. In long ago times during wars with Persians, hoplites were very experienced soldiers, and today they are great grandsons of old warriors that keep armours inherited after grandfathers and they hardly know how to use spear. Despite all this disadvantages Hoplites are good unit. They are well armed but they lack good training.
Spartan Hoplites
https://img413.imageshack.us/img413/432/aw18mv8.th.jpg (https://img413.imageshack.us/my.php?image=aw18mv8.jpg)
Spartan Hoplites are "perfect soldiers", who from beginning of their lives are trained only with one purpose - to be the best soldiers in whole world. Their military service begins in the day of their birth and last until they will be buried. Children of Sparta citizens do not belong to their parents but to Kingdom of Lacedaemon. Infant is presented to Council of Elders - The Gerousia. If the child is healthy and strong has to become a soldier. Sickly and weak children are abandoned in Taygetos mountains. When Spartan come to an age of maturity he kneel in front of Artemis where he was whipped. The one who endured the most of all was the best Spartan. During they education they were taught brutality, laconic speech and everything that could improve them to keep formation and to kill enemies of their homeland. No one taught erudition to Spartan, democracy or theatrical dramas. Result of such education is a man that does not know fear, that has the will to be victorious, and only his figure frighten those who heard about Thermopylae. Spartans fight in traditional way - like the hoplites. They are armed with bronze armours, hoplon shields, long spears, greaves and phrygian helmets, they also have sword but they use them only when fighting with spear is impossible. They once was the best from Greeks fighting in phalanx formation.
None never was better in holding the lines, march in phalanx formation or using a spear better then them. They were very traditionalist and they did not come with the spirit of time. Once mighty country of Sparta now is only a small land without importance. Thanks to fanatic citizens of this poleis Sparta could defend themselves from attack of mighty Pyrrhus and from that time no one never tried to conquer Sparta, one only try to limit influences of Lacedaemon.
Syracusian Hoplites
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Once, hoplites was the base of the strength of Greek polis and their colonies. Among these second ones, Syracuse itself made them own country on the Sicily. It doesn’t do without the good warriors, as hoplites are. Those soldiers was the wonderful power to fight with both infantry and cavalry. But the greatest time of hoplites ended with the death of heroes from Thermopylae and Syracuse. Despite that fact, hoplites are still the power of the battlefield. Their tactic is very simple: ranks are reaching the enemy in a normal order and then they are being closed, making the wall of shields, in the way that neighbor’s shields overlap each other. After that about the victory decide the fact, who first break enemies lines. Etruscan hoplites wear breastplate made of harden leather or strengthen linen, attic helmets with a comb, hoplons, kopises and long spears. They have also a sword at their side. However, it is used only when the spear is totally useless. Nowadays it is an unit out of date, easy to be defeated by Macedonian phalanx or even Aetolian highlanders. They are bad trained, easy fill with fear and fight without the spirit but they are really well equipped.
Leukaspides
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Leukaspides - White Shields are elite infantry from Tarentum, greek colony in Italy.
Elite of Tarentum civilians are armed with the best amours "musculum", phrygian helmets, xiphoses, greaves, long spears and hoplon shields. They cover their shields and armours with silver or tin plates as a sign of they elitism. Only a nobleman can become a member of White Shields, he has to know how to swing a sword and he has to be vastly rich. Lekaspides fight as a phalanx of greek type. In that formation soldiers stand next to each other (but far enough from each other to be able to use spear freely). Number of rows can vary from 8 to 16, and 3 first ones keep their spears horizontally and form barrier from pikes. Other rows keep their spear slanted at 45 degrees (it has to protect them from arrows) and they press on front rows to give them additional strength to break enemy formation. Defeating Leukaspides from the front is very difficult, and it take a heavy toll of brave man lives, but flanks and rear of phalanx is high vulnerable to attacks. Also on the rough terrain, in the forest or in mountains this unit during march may break its formation easily and be defeated.
This unit do not surrender without fight and before they do it many of them will die in glory.
Athenian Hoplites
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Hoplites recruited from wealthy Athenian citizens. Hoplites were the base of the Greek military power in the past. These soldiers, fighting in phalanx, were the best forces against cavalry or infantry. But their Golden Age has ended with the heroes from Thermopylae and Syracuse. Although hoplites are already a power in the battlefields. Their tactics is simple: formations approach to the enemy in normal order, than, in a close formation they make a wall of shields. The winner is the side, which breaks enemys’ formation first. They are armed with phrygian helmets, hoplons, long spears and a bronze armour plates named “musculum”. They have also xiphos with them, but they use it only in finality. Today it’s an obsolete unit, worse than Macedonian phalanx or even light aetolian highlanders. They are well-armoured, but poorly trained and have low morale.
Corinthian Hoplites
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Hoplites once was essential part of all Greek military power. Fighting in greek phalanx those soldiers were perfect unit to fight against infantry or cavalry. But times of their splendour have gone with heroes from Thermopylae and Syracuse. Despite of this Hoplites are still strong power on the battlefield. Their tactics is simple: formation move close to enemy in standard arrangement, and after it they tighten formation, they form wall from shields and march in such order that shield of one hoplite overlap on the shield of one next to him. Later about victory decides only which side by strength will faster break the enemy formation. They are armed with light armour, chalcidian helmet with crest, xiphos, hoplon, greaves and long spears. Now it is already obsolete unit, they are not a challenge to macedon phalanx or even light aetolian highlanders. They are poorly trained, they panic easily and fight without a passion but they are well armed.
Macedonian Peltasts
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Peltasts are universal soldiers in Macedonian army. They are recruited from the strongest man in the kingdom. Peltasts are fully professional formation, in contrast to nearly all another types of units in Macedon. Long trainings in loose formation enable them making various formations in a small period of time, which ordinary sarissophoroi, in their close formation, couldn’t make. In the opposite of another phalangits, Peltasts were trained in sword-fighting, but mostly they fight with their long spears. Peltasts are medium-armoured infantry, which is used as a military police, or a ‘special unit’. They can fight in loose formation (for example, in sieges) or as a part of a phalanx (in large battles). In Diadochi armies peltasts were main forces. Defeating them in phalanx isn’t possible, as long as they hold they formation, and even if they formation breaks, they are hard to defeat. On hills, in forests or mountains phalanx formation could easily break its formation, so they must care in which way they are moving. They are equipped in bronze breast plates, greaves, phrygian helmets, xiphos, hoplon shields and spears, so they are very similar to elite units. The formation of peltasts bases on hypaspists units. Candidats for royal guards, agema, are mostly chosen from peltasts. A good general could change these men in a legendary unit, more famous than Spartan hoplites or Roman legionaries.
Greek Hoplites
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Hoplites once was essential part of all Greek military power. Fighting in greek phalanx those soldiers were perfect unit to fight against infantry or cavalry. But times of their splendour have gone with heroes from Thermopylae and Syracuse. Despite of this Hoplites are still strong power on the battlefield. Their tactics is simple: formation move close to enemy in standard arrangement, and after it they tighten formation, they form wall from shields and march in such order that shield of one hoplite overlap on the shield of one next to him. Later about victory decides only which side by strength will faster braek the enemy formation. They wear plastrons: linen or made from stiffen leather, boeotian helmets with crest, greaves hoplons, xiphoses and long spears. On the end of their spear there is a bronze spike that is driven to earth. When the spear breaks, that spike can be used as a weapon. Now it is already obsolete unit, they are not a challenge to Macedonian phalanx or even light Aetolian highlanders. They are poorly trained, they panic easily and fight without a passion but they are well armed.
Etruscan Hoplites
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Greek colonies dispersed on the whole area of the Mediterranean Sea, were developing not only the culture and products of their craftsmen but the art of war, too. A lot of nations, and Etruscans among them, used and adapted Hellene’s fighting technique for them own needs. Etruscan Hoplites, like Greek ones, fight in the phalanx. That soldiers was the wonderful power to fight with both infantry and cavalry. But the greatest time of hoplites ended with the death of heroes from Thermopylae and Syracuse. Despite that fact, hoplites are still the power of the battlefield. Their tactic is very simple: ranks are reaching the enemy in a normal order and then they are being closed, making the wall of shields, in the way that neighbor’s shields overlap each other. After that about the victory decide the fact, who first break enemies lines. Etruscan hoplites wear breastplate made of harden leather or strengthen linen, attic helmets with a comb, hoplons, kopises and long spears. At the end of spear is a bronze thorn, being driven in the ground. When the core is broken, the thorn could be used as a weapon. Nowadays it is an unit out of date, easy to be defeated by Macedonian phalanx or even Aetolian highlanders. They are bad trained, easy fill with fear and fight without the spirit but they are really well equipped.
Ekdromoi
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Ekdromoi is light infantry, suggestive to hoplites but they have weaker armed. They are recruited from peasants, and send to basic combat training and after it they are armed with hoplon shields, thracian helmets and spears. They are defensive type unit. They can be used to protect flanks because in the centre they would be useless. Poor morale, problems in holding regular formation or lack of good armour are reasons that, despite of that they are faster then phalanx, they can fight as equal only with poorly armed infantry and light cavalry. Their next disadvantages are weak flanks and rear. The only one advantage of Ekdromoi is low cost of training, speed and basic ability to form traditional greek phalanx. So till they hold the formation there is a hope they will keep they position.
Sacred Band Infantry
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Sacred Band is an elite among Carthaginian forces. This unit id recruited from citizens and it is rather uncommon in mercenary army of Carthage in which there is plenty of Libyans and Numidians. Like in most of Mediterranean Sea countries, this heavy infantry fights in Greek phalanx formation. They are personal guards of generals and leaders of Punic nation. During long selection and in many years of experience they gained characteristic quiet and serious appearance, during fight they frighten their enemy because of tranquillity and calmness. Their tactics is simple: formation move close to enemy in standard arrangement, and after it they tighten formation, they form wall from shields shield of one soldier overlap on the shield of one next to him. Later about victory decides only which side by strength will faster break the enemy formation. They are armed with bronze plastron, phrygian helmet, hoplon shield, greaves and long spear. They also have xiphos to hand-to-hand fight, but they use it only when it is absolutely necessarily - when the spear is hindering fighting. Though they have greek type of weapons and style of fighting, ornamentation and strategy is different. Now, in comparison to macedon phalanx, it is already obsolete unit, but they still are able to great and glorious deeds.
Libyan Infantry
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Libyan infantry Kart Hadaszt army consists of the mercenaries from all over the world, but the main forces are formed from Libyans. We can say that they have a monopoly on service in Punic army. When the war begins, Carthaginian Councils calls their allies to send them army contingents. Libyan infantry is armoured with a light armour plate, thracian helmet, hoplon shield, a long spear and xiphos. They are equipped similar as Greeks, but they have different decorations. The way of fighting hadn't changed: formations approach to the enemy in normal order, than, in a close formation they make a wall of shields. The winner is the side, which breaks enemy’s' formation first. Libyan forces proved their usefulness many times, but the domination of foreigners in army causes arguments, if it's a Punic or Libyan army…
Poeni Infantry
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Greek colonies spread in all costs of Mediterranean Sea were disseminating no only culture and products of craftsman but also art of war. Many nations, and Carthaginians among them used and adopted greek war technique to they own needs. Poeni infantry similar to greek ones fight in phalanx formation. Those soldiers where perfect unit to fight against infantry or cavalry. But times of their splendour have gone with heroes from Sicilian Wars. Despite of this Hoplites are still strong power on the battlefield. Their tactics is simple: formation move close to enemy in standard arrangement, and after it they tighten formation, they form wall from shields and march in such order that shield of one soldier overlap on the shield of one next to him. Later about victory decides only which side by strength will faster break the enemy formation. They wear iron chain shirts, thracian helmets, hoplons, xiphoses and long spears. This unit recruited from citizens spontaneously is last way of defence to the city of Dido. It is true that every citizen of Kart Hadaszt has a weapon in his house, but he inherited it after brave grandfathers he do not keep military tradition. Now it is already obsolete unit, they are not a challenge to macedon phalanx or roman legions. They are poorly trained, they panic easily and fight without a passion but they are well armed.
Romanized Libyan Infantry
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Kart Hadaszt army consists of the mercenaries from all over the world, but the main forces are formed from Libyans. We can say that they have a monopoly on service in Punic army. When the war begins, Carthaginian Councils calls their allies to send them army contingents. Weapons and armours captured on Romans are better quality than Carthaginian ones. Although we can't specify equipment of these units, we can mainly define what they had: roman chain-armours, thracian helmets, scutum shields, long spears and xiphos. The way of fighting hadn't changed: formations approach to the enemy in normal order, than, in a close formation they make a wall of shields. The winner is the side, which breaks enemy’s' formation first. Libyan forces proved their usefulness many times, but the domination of foreigners in army causes arguments, if it's a Punic or Libyan army…
FACTION preview: ROME, soon