What was Cavalleggeri?

Introduction Cavalleggeri were an inferior category of cavalry during the classic period of feudal cavalry. This included knife-armed cavalry, lancers’ pages and mounted crossbowmen. Later, cavalleggeri became a subsidiary arm of the gendarmerie (refer to Light Cavalry). In 1498, Louis XII of France gave this name (chevau-léger) to his mounted companies, forming a sort of… Read More

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What was the Gonfalone of the Church?

Introduction The Banner of the Holy Roman Church (Latin: Vexillum; Italian: Gonfalone di Santa Romana Chiesa, occasionally Vessilio di San Pietro, “Standard of Saint Peter”) was the battle standard of the Papal States during the Renaissance and a symbol of the Catholic Church. The office of the Gonfalonier of the Church was originally intended to… Read More

What is the Light Cavalry Commanders’ Course?

Aim of the Course To give newly commissioned Armoured Corps Officers basic training in Jackal Gunnery, Driving and Maintenance, Signals and in commanding a reconnaissance (recce) troop, including a practical phase. Facilitated by IDT(A). Entry Standards Second Lieutenant to Lieutenant (OF-1). IELTS Level 5.5 The student must hold a FULL or PROVISIONAL driving licence. Duration… Read More

What is Light Cavalry?

Introduction Light cavalry comprises lightly armed and lightly armoured troops mounted on horses, as opposed to heavy cavalry, where the riders (and sometimes the warhorses) are heavily armoured. The missions of the light cavalry were primarily raiding, reconnaissance, screening, skirmishing, patrolling, and tactical communications. They were usually armed with swords, spears, or bows, and later… Read More

What is Heavy Cavalry?

Introduction Heavy cavalry was a class of cavalry intended to deliver a battlefield charge and also to act as a tactical reserve; they are also often termed ‘shock cavalry’. Although their equipment differed greatly depending on the region and historical period, heavy cavalry were generally mounted on large powerful warhorses, and were often equipped with… Read More

What is Cavalry?

Introduction Cavalry (from the French word cavalerie, itself derived from “cheval” meaning “horse”) are soldiers or warriors who fight mounted on horseback. Cavalry were historically the most mobile of the combat arms, operating as light cavalry in the roles of reconnaissance, screening and harassing in many armies, or as heavy cavalry for decisive shock attacks… Read More