Distance marching rates, infantry v cavalry

[Vindex]

About two hours ago, while staggering up an Exmoor hillside, I realised I shouldn't have written 'stuffed with hay' and that Vindex will pull me up! Quite right too.

Regards, Steve

:mrgreen:

Sorry. I should learn to sit on my hands...

(I am surprised you aren't canoeing up Exmoor!!! Flood warning for the South West tomorrow!)


Edit:

I have now found my Hyland reference as mentioned above. (Equus page 192ff) The 80km a day (50 miles) is associated with Gallienus' rapid strike force. (Note to self - check if it is Roman miles or standard miles which have been used in the calculation). Furthermore Gallienus' force at Milan was between 50 and 60 alae (Cheesman 1941) so 25,ooo troopers (that's a LOT of fodder and a massive muck heap for the horses!) to be dispatched as required.

I think to understand this force you have to look at it in the context of the "reform" and see where the threat was perceived. This many horses is not much use to you if Egypt started giving you trouble.

Is there any connection with the fact that it was cavalry officers who disposed of Gallienus???


As an aside, I think one should consider the effect on the enemy of the appearance of a fast moving reinforcement appearing when not expected. Not only suprise (one of the principles of war) and agility but also serious "fire" power if the force consisted of units with a mixture of weaponry.