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Thread: [OLD DEV THREAD] FACTION: The Eastern Roman Empire

  1. #121
    Manuel Komnenos's Avatar Senator
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    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    Quote Originally Posted by Ahiga View Post
    In this topic is good. It bears mentioning that Byzantium will get like our other factions a 'historically inspired, historically influenced, historically themed, but not historically imitated' approach. We will be accurate in the big picture with byzantium, but we will not attempt to emulate them to the same fine detail that a mod focusing on them may do.

    All I mean to say by that is that we will use anglicized names (A greek term then an english term, the equivalent being Faris Lancers, or Junior Ghulams), and we may take artistic or creative liberties with them. They will remain firmly Byzantine, and appear like they walked out of history and very well could or would have stood in Byzantine ranks in the past, but they may not be your interpretation of them, and that's fine - we've all got our own.
    Ofcourse, but one thing is certain. It'll be better than vanilla, and this is all that i ask.
    Why we dig up the past? To understand it.

  2. #122
    Manuel Komnenos's Avatar Senator
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    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    So to began, first descriptions.

    The Byzantine army roster description list (1071 - 1204)(great part from byzantine klibanophoroi, have his permission), also sorted in military order.
    it's ''little too descriptive''
    pics will follow shortly

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 


    A - CAVARLY

    a) Basilika Tagmata Hippeon (Imperial Tagmata Cavalry)
    (NOTE: The Byzantine word for a Cavalryman was “Kavallarios” and “Kavallarikon” for Cavalry. It was a Latin loanword of course. It is no longer in use. The word Ippikon (or Hippikon) was the proper Ancient Greek word for Cavalry, which is used today in Modern Greek. Perhaps a more accurate Byzantine rendering would be: Basilika Tagmata Kavallarion. )

    The Hippeis (called Kavalarioi in Byzantine Greek) of the Basilika Tagmata are the elite Imperial heavy cavalry regiments. According to the Notitia Dignitarum of Constantine V who founded the Cavalry Tagmata, these consisted of the Scholae, Excubitores, Vigla (Watch) Arithmos (Numera), Optimates, Teiche (Walls), Opsicianoi, Bucellarioi, Thraciotai. The Tagma Hicanaton was added later by Nicephorus I. They are highly paid professional full-time soldiers based in the capital and equipped and paid by the central government. As Imperial elites, their weapons and armour are of the highest grade available in the empire.

    The Hippeis of the Basilika Tagmata are armed with a “kontos” (lance measuring around 4 metres) in their role as primarily lancers. But they can also use the bow (toxon) as horse archers as well. But more commonly among heavy cavalry is the use of lead-weighted javelins (marzobarboulon). In a melee, they can be expected to use a xiphos (sword) or a mace (bardoukion or matzoukion). As heavy cavalry, they are well-armoured with a combination of chain mail lorikia underneath a lamellar cuirass (waist or knee length available) and sometimes with a padded coat underneath the chain mail.
    Because of their Lorikia armour, they are sometimes referred to as “Loricatoi” in Byzantine texts.
    Their arms and legs are protected by splint-segmented armour made from iron, leather or wood. Their head is protected by an iron helmet (sometimes of segmented construction) with an aventail attached of lamellar or mail. They also carry large kite shaped shields to protect their body. The sources recommend that if available, horses should be armoured. Seeing as they have access to the Basilikon Armamenton (Imperial Armament) of the capital, they are most likely to acquire equine armour. Equine armour could be made from iron, leather, padded material or felt and could cover the whole horse or just the frontal parts of the horse. As the “Kavallarikon tou Basileos” (Emperor’s Own Cavalrymen) and as highly paid soldiers, it would not be surprising to see richly decorated armour and apparel on them and their mounts seeing as it represents the prestige of the Basileos and his cavalrymen.
    Their role as elite heavy cavalrymen is to serve as the decisive arm of the Rhomaioi Stratiotikoi. A disciplined and timed charge from them can grasp victory. In contrast to most cavalrymen of the empire, they are well-trained with the powerful composite bow (from hunting with the Basileus) and can shoot arrows at a distance before engaging the enemy. This also has a practical result in that they can keep away the encroachment of enemy forces who seek to attack the Basileos’ position on the battlefield.

    Historically, they slowly evolved from the rebellions of the Thematikoi Opsikion that prompted Basileus Konstantine V’s to reform them into the first Tagmatikoi Hippeis through which ceremonial regiments like the Scholae and the Excubitores became crack imperial regiments. The regiment of the Hikanatoi is the youngest, formed by Nikephoros I for promising officers. Recruitment into this prestigious and elite group consisted of the promising sons of nobles and aristocrats and from soldiers who distinguished themselves in battle to earn the honour of serving the Emperor. Each cavalry regiment is commanded by a Domestikos (except the Arithmoi under a Droungarios). For the Basileos, the Basilikoi Tagmatikoi Hippeis form the professional, reliable and mobile core of the Roman army which can be mobilized quickly and form the spearhead in the empire’s campaigns. The battle of Manzikert saw the last effective and professional remains of the Basilika Tagmata perish or decimated under the leadership of Philaretos Brachamios who led an unsuccessful resistance in northern Syria with remaining Tagmatikai forces against the Seljuq tide in the aftermath of Manzikert. Small number of them served as Emperor elite bodyguard in time of Komnenos emperors(Athanatoi - Immortals)

    Appearance of the Basilika Tagmata Hippeon:
    There are a number of appearances possible:
    1a: Most likely type with lamellar, mail lorikion and padded coat underneath. Though armed with bows, could just as well use lead weighted javelins, a lance and a sword/mace for melee. Horse will wear padded armour.

    1b: If they wore knee-length lamellar klibanion and mail lorikion underneath (which was possible and available to them) Their horses have felt padded armour to protect them while making them more mobile rather than encumbered with a full-metal lamellar klibanion and also decorated with gold harnesses and simple patterns. Probably a cavalry officer? Carries full panoply of lance, mace, bow and javelins.

    1c: Another likely type with just lamellar klbanion and mail lorikion underneath. Carries a bow and quiver (in picture) but most likely use javelins and a lance with a sword/ mace for melee. Rider wears a richly decorated cape. Horse wears padded armour. Ligher than metal and protects horse.

    Unit type:
    HEAVY CAVALRY

    Soldiers: 20
    Experience: 4
    Melee Attack: 14
    Attack skill due to training: 7
    - Quality of weapons: 3
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 4

    Missile Attack: 7
    - Armour piercing ability: 3
    - Quality of missile weapons: 4

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    IRRESISTIBLE: 9

    Weapon Type:
    Heavy: lance and mace
    Light: Bow

    Total defence: 15
    - Amount of armour on individual: 4
    - Quality of the armour: 4
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 4
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 3

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined(or only emperor can have them)
    Upkeep: to be determined(very expensive)

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 8) for heavy and medium armoured cavalrymen on horseback

    MORALE: EXCELLENT
    DISCIPLINE: EXCELLENT

    Notable abilities:
    Wedge formation, shoots with bow, charges with lance, melees with mace

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    b) Klibanaphoroi
    Klibanaphoroi are the heaviest heavy cavalry the Rhomaicos Stratos have ever fielded. Both horse and man are completely encased in layers of mail, lamellar and padded armour that they seemed to be invincible and unstoppable when combined with a thundering and fearful charge. Arab poet and contemporary Al-Mutannabi was so impressed that he described their intimidating and curious appearance on his Arab compatriots while the famous Strategos Nikephoros Ouranos soberly describes the impact and intention of the Klibanaphoroi charge as that of “smashing the heads and horses of the enemy”.

    The defensive equipment of the Klibanaphoroi involves the wearing of a knee-length and elbow-length lamellar klibanion as depicted in sources. Over this lamellar is an epilorikon of padded armour or padded armour with mail quilted into it (elbow or non-elbow length). The cavalryman’s helmet is of iron construction with a three-layered aventail of mail covering his whole face with holes for his eyes only. Arm and leg armour consists of typical splint armour: Cheiropsella for the arms and the Podopsella for the legs. For his feet, a metal overshoe may be worn over it. His mount is likewise armoured completely with only the legs of the horse visible.
    In battle, the Klibanaphoroi carry an array of weapons depending on their position in a blunt wedge formation. Those in the front ranks carry maces (bardoukion) while those of the side carry (kontos) lances and cavalrymen in the middle carry bows (toxon). For the most part, the Klibanaphoroi are lancers who use maces or swords for melee while the archers in their midst can be either heavy cavalry Kataphraktoi Hippotoxotai or Hyperkerastai Hippotoxotai. However, like other Rhomaicon heavy cavalry, they can use javelins (marzobarboulon). Their role as heavily armoured cavalry is the same as western knights with except that their western counterparts are lighter and faster with more momentum in their fearsome charges. While the Klibanaphoroi surrenders speed, the effect on enemy lines is practically similar simply because of the sheer weight that collides on contact and the added psychological element of an intimidating heavily armoured foe trotting slowly before the final charge. They should not be used to harass or chase after enemy units but simply to serve as a brutal battering ram against a fixed enemy.

    Historically, the Klibanaphoroi was the resurrection of the “super heavy cavalry” of the late Roman “Clibanarii”. It is suggested that the re-genesis of the Klibanaphoroi could even precede Nikephoros Phokas back to the time of Ioannis Kourkouas in the 930s due to Arab sources in that era attesting to it. Either way, they were used extensively by Nikephoros Phokas (before he was Basileos) in his eastern campaigns with great effect. They were usually formed up in a blunt wedge formation of 504 men of whom 2 out of 5 were horse archers. However, it is not clear as to whether the Hippotoxotai were Klibanaphoroi armed with bows or were just cavalry archers combined with the Klibanaphoroi. The latter, however, seems more likely. The Madrid Skylitzes depicts Basil II Boulgaroktonos leading Klibanaphoroi against the Iberians, so we can summise that they still existed in the 1020s. While there are lack of sources to indicate the presence of the Klibanaphoroi in the 1060s due to the government’s neglect of the army and the assertion of non-military influences in the Rhomaicon Basileion which produced contemporaries who were not as well versed in matters of a military nature. It is the conclusion of most scholars that they definitely disappear after Manzikert as there are no more resources to support them, and hence, a reliance on Western Europeans for heavy cavalry. However, they have not quite disappeared in the 1060s and could possibly be resurrected beyond the 1070s if the Rhomaioi can find the resources to bring them back to the field.

    Unit type:
    HEAVY CAVALRY

    Soldiers: 20
    Experience: 4
    Attack: 15
    Attack skill due to training: 7
    - Quality of weapons: 4
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 4

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    STRONG (8)

    Weapon Type:
    Heavy: lance and mace
    Light: Javelins

    Total defence: 16
    - Amount of armour on individual: 5
    - Quality of the armour: 4
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 4
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 3

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    SLOW (6)

    MORALE: EXCELLENT
    DISCIPLINE: EXCELLENT

    Notable abilities:
    Wedge formation, use javelins

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    c) Thematika Tagmata Kataphrakton
    Each thema has its core of professional full time Thematikoi Stratiotai which in turn are recognized as Tagmatikoi to separate them from their part-time militia Thematikoi counterparts. The most elite of these Thematikoi Stratiotai are the Tagmatikoi Kataphraktoi who are excellent and disciplined native Rhomaioi heavy cavalrymen.

    According to pictorial sources and the (theoretical) written military texts, the Kataphraktoi are well equipped. As expected, they would wear a lamellar klibanion with the wealthier ones wearing a chain mail lorikon underneath or a padded mail quilt to add extra buffer support. The lamellar klibanion may also cover the upper half of the cavalrymen’s arms with lamellar and shoulder plates combining together. Their helmet is of simple iron construction with either a mail, lamellar or leather aventail or hood. They identified themselves by tufts of hair on their armour and tufenk in their helmets.
    Kataphraktoi are equipped with a long kontos (lance) and carry as melee weapons a spathion (sword) and siderorabdion (mace) especially for officers. They also carry a large kite-shaped shield which covers a large proportion of their body.
    Kataphraktoi are primarily lancers and are used to break an enemy at a decisive point in battle to secure victory.

    Historically, Kataphraktoi have been in Rhomaic armies for centuries in various forms and guises depending on the military conditions of the time. They often served as the local elites of the provinces due to their status and ability to serve as heavy cavalrymen. In the 11th century, they are in serious decline in numbers as the government neglects not only the Thematikoi Stratiotai but also the provincial Tagmatikoi Stratiotai as well. It is likely that the Kataphraktoi who still exist come from rich aristocratic military families known as the “Dynatoi” or “powerful” and form the Empire’s military elite. It is also likely that rich landowners served as Kataphraktoi as they were able to afford it. But if they themselves don’t serve in battle, they could commutate or sponsor someone else to serve in their place in a “Synone” agreement.

    Unit type:
    HEAVY CAVALRY

    Soldiers: 30
    Experience: 3
    Melee Attack: 14
    Attack skill due to training: 7
    - Quality of weapons: 3
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 4

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    IRRESISTIBLE (8)

    Weapon Type:
    Heavy: lance and sword

    Total defence: 14
    - Amount of armour on individual: 4
    - Quality of the armour: 4
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 4
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 2

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 8)

    MORALE: NORMAL
    DISCIPLINE: EXCELLENT

    Notable abilities:
    wedge

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    d) Thematika Tagmata Kontaraton
    Each thema has its core of professional full time Thematikoi Stratiotai which in turn are recognized as Tagmatikoi to separate them from their part-time militia Thematikoi counterparts. The Thematika Tagmata Kontaraton are Stratiotai who can afford to equip themselves according to the requirements expected for military service.

    The Thematika Tagmata Kontaraton are basically lancers whose aim to deliver a knock-out blow to the enemy and also, if possible, to chase after defeated enemy soldiers in flight. They have a certain standard required of them as cavalrymen. The best equipped of the Kontaratoi have a good quality lamellar klibanion lined with pteryges on arms and thighs. Their helmet is made of iron with an aventail of either scale, mail, lamellar or leather strips. Those who can afford it will wear splinted armour for legs and arms but a common protection for legs are padded boots worn by most cavalrymen. Lesser equipped and poorer cavalrymen would have a padded or leather corselet with a leather helmet. They would have shoulder tufts and helmet tufenks to identify themselves.
    As their name suggests, they are lancers who use the kontarion. They also carry a spathion for close engagements. For protection, they carry a kite-shaped shield.

    Historically, Thematikoi Stratiotai were expected to be equipped as cavalrymen in theory. With the decline of the Thema in the 11th century, most cavalrymen lost their source of sustenance and maintenance so as to be downgraded to either infantrymen or nothing at all. For those who were fortunate to survive, they formed the professional mobile core of any province. They are frequently depicted in Rhomaic pictorial sources and it seems they were the most common type of cavalrymen amongst the Rhomaion Stratiotikoi and represented – instead of the Kataphraktoi - the power of the Rhomaioi.

    Unit type:
    MEDIUM CAVALRY

    Soldiers: 40
    Experience: 2
    Melee Attack: 12
    Attack skill due to training: 6
    - Quality of weapons: 3
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 3

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    STRONG (7)

    Weapon Type:
    Heavy: lance and sword

    Total defence: 11
    - Amount of armour on individual: 3
    - Quality of the armour: 3
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 3
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 2

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 8)

    MORALE: NORMAL
    DISCIPLINE: NORMAL

    Notable abilities:
    wedge

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    e) Latinika Tagmata
    Wealth and adventure attracts Western mercenaries into Rhomaic military service. Important Western mercenaries like Normans and Franks form the “Latinika Tagmata” of Latin heavy cavalry knights that filled in the Rhomaion deficiency of heavy cavalry units. Like most knights from the West, a full panoply would consist of a long chain mail shirt reaching to the knees and elbow length. Wealthier knights can afford mail leggings and additional protection for their arms. In some instances, some knights even adopt Rhomaic armour of predominantly lamellar construction. Their helmets would reflect their native military styles which include a nasal guard (seemingly absent from Rhomaic helmets).

    Their weapons would consist of a lance and a sword. Taught in the western manner, these knights would charge with their lances under-arm rather than over. Theirs would be of the conventional type which is long and straight just like the Rhomaioi have (with exception to the curved paramerion for native Rhomaion cavalrymen).

    Historically, the Latinika Tagmata is nothing new. In various incarnations, heavy cavalrymen from the West have fought in Rhomaic armies. The 11th century seems to be the time when their recruitment accelerated with the decline of the native Rhomaic army to the point that the Rhomaioi were impressed with them after having let their own heavy cavalry decline for so long under incompetent rulers. These knights come from various parts of Europe like France and Italy. Normans, in particular, were a large component of Rhomaic mercenaries. They caused more trouble by their rebellious and barbaric behaviour in Rhomaic territory, and yet, they were desperately needed by the Empire against its numerous and strong neighbours.

    Unit type:
    HEAVY CAVALRY

    Soldiers: 30
    Experience: 3
    Melee Attack: 14
    Attack skill due to training: 7
    - Quality of weapons: 4
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 3

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    IRRESISTIBLE (9)

    Weapon Type:
    Heavy: lance and sword

    Total defence: 13
    - Amount of armour on individual: 3
    - Quality of the armour: 4
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 3
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 3

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 7)

    MORALE: NORMAL
    DISCIPLINE: WEAK

    Notable abilities:
    Charge!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    f) Thematika Tagmata Kataphrakton Hippotoxoton
    Each thema has its core of professional full time Thematikoi Stratiotai which in turn are recognized as Tagmatikoi to separate them from their part-time militia Thematikoi counterparts. The most elite of these Thematikoi Stratiotai are the Tagmatikoi Kataphraktoi Hippotoxotai who are excellent and disciplined native Rhomaioi hippotoxotai.

    According to pictorial sources and the (theoretical) written military texts, the Kataphraktoi are well equipped. As expected, they would wear a lamellar klibanion with the wealthier ones wearing a chain mail lorikon underneath or a padded mail quilt to add extra buffer support. The lamellar klibanion may also cover the upper half of the cavalrymen’s arms with lamellar and shoulder plates combining together. Their helmet is of simple iron construction with either a mail, lamellar or leather aventail or hood. Elite troops such as these would have shoulder tufts and helmet tufenks to identify themselves.
    Kataphraktoi Hippotoxotai are equipped with a powerful composite bow (toxon) and a quiver of 40-50 arrows. They carry a small shield in their left hand alongside their bow. As heavy cavalrymen, they are capable of melee as well. In a melee, they can carry a spathion or a siderorabdion - an all iron mace.
    As hippotoxotai, they are armoured horse archers who can deliver missile fire as well as give a good account of themselves in close combat to add to their tactical flexibility. They are best used to harass an enemy before charging into the fray against a weakened army.

    Historically, Kataphraktoi hippotoxotai fluctuated in numbers and tactical roles throughout Rhomaic history. The composite lancer/archer faded out as a military function in the Rhomaicos Stratos centuries ago. Kataphraktoi hippotoxotai are heavy cavalrymen who are skilled in the use of the toxon and therefore ordered to use it as their primary weapon. Such horse archers are very rare in Rhomaic armies and form a rare talented exception which in turn makes them expensive hippotoxotai. Under Nikephoros Phokas, they are brigaded alongside the more heavily armoured Klibanaphoroi as a part of a tactical combined arms unit that would fire missiles at the enemy while their Klibanaphoroi comrades prepared to charge into a disorientated enemy.

    Unit type:
    HEAVY CAVALRY

    Soldiers: 40
    Experience: 3
    Melee Attack: 14
    Attack skill due to training: 7
    - Quality of weapons: 4
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 3

    Missile Attack: 7
    - Armour piercing ability: 3
    - Quality of missile weapons: 4

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    IRRESISTIBLE (8)

    Weapon Type:
    Heavy: lance and MACE
    Light: Bow

    Total defence: 14
    - Amount of armour on individual: 4
    - Quality of the armour: 4
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 4
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 2

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 8) for heavy and medium armoured cavalrymen on horseback

    MORALE: NORMAL
    DISCIPLINE: EXCELLENT

    Notable abilities:
    shoots with bow, armour piercing weapon

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    g) Basilikoi Hippeis tes Hetaireias
    The Basilikoi Hippeis (or Kavallarioi) tes Hetaireias are the mounted equivalents of the Basilikon Hopliton tes Hetaireias. Recruitment from mainly regions where excellent horsemen are produced, the Basilikoi Hippeis tes Hetaireias may consist of Chazaroi, Pharganoi, Tourkoi (Magyars), Patzinaks and other cavalry archer nations. The difference between them and other cavalry archer mercenaries is their prestigious imperial status as “Basilikoi”.

    Their equipment would most likely be a combination of their native style and of Rhomaic issue from the Basilikon Armamenton so that an interesting amalgamation of military style is produced. However, Rhomaic arms and armour were influenced by Central Asian influences anyway. At minimum, chain mail lorikion could be worn with an additional lamellar klibanion. Sometimes, a lamellar klibanion over a padded bambakion is worn. Their prestige as an imperial regiment means that they are also likely to distinguish themselves with finery such as cloaks, capes, decorated belts and “uniforms” an endemic and not uncommon practice by nomadic warriors. Their mounts would most unlikely be heavily armoured, and yet, there is the possibility of armour available for officers and higher ranked cavalrymen. Even if unarmoured, their mounts can be covered in a padded or felt cloth of some kind from padded material which can be plain and undecorated or richly decorated depending in the individual horseman. The weapons they carry would be a composite bow (toxon) with a spare one in case attached to saddle as well as extra spare strings; a sword (spathion) of the straight kind (not the scimitar) or even a curved Rhomaicon Paramerion. They can also carry all iron maces (Siderorabdia) like other elite Rhomaic cavalrymen as well as hand axes called Tzikourion from their native regions. As Hippotoxotai, their shields would be small (12 inches) as a larger shield would make the use of a bow difficult. They serve first and foremost as guards of the Basileos and not as warriors deployed on the field. However, when they are deployed for combat, they serve as harassing cavalry archers with the necessary amount of armoured protection and arms to fight when needed in close combat.

    Historically, the Hetaereia accompanied the Basileos in battle and are placed close to him in fortified camps compared to other Tagmatikoi Stratiotai (as stated in a military manual attributed to Nikephoros Phokas but most likely his brother Leo Phokas). They served mainly as a cavalry force of Hippotoxotai. Because of their Imperial status, their access to better armour and equipment means they could also be considered above the category of light Hippotoxotai to medium Hippotoxotai with the advantage of armour. Entrance into the Hetaereia was a much sought after privilege was required a paid sum to enter (and if physically appropriate to the task) with different levels of entrance fees depending on the level (but in this case, consolidated as it historically did). Entrance fees range from the princely sum of 16 pounds (1 pound of gold equals 72 gold nomismata) to as low as roughly 10 pounds of gold. From the mid 11th century, however, there has been a shift in the recruitment of “Hetaereiotai” from mercenaries to the noble young men of Constantinople. But in 1071, the foreign ethnikoi are still strong elements as the central government seemed to increasingly hire mercenaries in this time period.

    Unit type:
    MEDIUM CAVALRY

    Soldiers: 40
    Experience: 3
    Melee Attack: 14
    Attack skill due to training: 7
    - Quality of weapons: 4
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 3

    Missile Attack: 7
    - Armour piercing ability: 3
    - Quality of missile weapons: 4

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    STRONG (8)

    Weapon Type:
    Heavy: lance and sword
    Light: Bow

    Total defence: 12
    - Amount of armour on individual: 3
    - Quality of the armour: 4
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 3
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 2

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 8) for heavy and medium armoured cavalrymen on horseback

    MORALE: EXCELLENT
    DISCIPLINE: EXCELLENT

    Notable abilities:
    shoots with bow, cantabrian circle

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    h) Prokoursatores Kontaratoi
    During the 11th century, the Rhomaioi extensively recruited mercenaries for their military needs, particularly in regards to cavalry. Despite this, there was still a coterie of native cavalrymen who still serve in the Stratos. The Prokoursatores (meaning “Screening Forces”) Kontaratoi are of these cavalrymen. .

    Prokoursatores Kontaratoi are light lancers whose function is to charge and break the enemy. They are also useful as pursuers of broken and fleeing enemies because of their lightness when compared to heavy cavalry. They are excellent as flanking and support units which when used correctly can be devastating. Prokoursatores are armed with Kontarion lances to charge into the enemy. A side arm for close combat is either a curved paramerion or long spathion blade. Their armour consists of padded coats and a leather corselet for extra protection. Wealthier ones can afford an iron helmet with a mail aventail while most would settle for a helmet of simpler means of leather construction. They carry a large kite-shaped shield for maximum protection.

    Historically, Prokoursatores were support units in the Rhomaic army and were used as border troops for raids and reconnaissance missions. With the settling of peace after Basil II Bulgaroktonos’ strong reign, their numbers have shrunk and their utility has declined as well. However, there are still native cavalrymen still in service and will be much needed against more nimbler foes who thrive on lighting strikes and a more mobile form of combat than the Rhomaioi are use to. Some Prokoursatores are descendants of migrations into the empire of peoples who fought on horseback like the Iranian Khurramites who migrated and settled in parts of Asia Minor or the Banu Habib who were overwhelmingly cavalrymen and fought on the borderlands of the empire.

    Unit type:
    MEDIUM CAVALRY

    Soldiers: 40
    Experience: 3
    Melee Attack: 11
    Attack skill due to training: 6
    - Quality of weapons: 3
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 2

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    STRONG (7)

    Weapon Type:
    Heavy: lance and sword

    Total defence: 11
    - Amount of armour on individual: 3
    - Quality of the armour: 3
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 3
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 2

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 8)

    MORALE: NORMAL
    DISCIPLINE: EXCELLENT

    Notable abilities:

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    i) Menaulatoi
    Like the Skoutatoi, the Menaulatoi are one the reforms that affected infantrymen during the renaissance under the military Emperors. Unlike the Skoutatoi, they are anti-cavalry units of a different kind. Instead of long spears to keep enemy cavalry at a distance, the Menaulatoi are javelinmen who use heavy javelins called Menaulion (from which they derive their name) against enemy cavalry.

    Menaulatoi are usually positioned behind the Skoutatoi. When the enemy is within striking distance, the Menaulatoi unleash their javelin Menaulion, a thick headed javelin with a long 50cm head. Their defensive equipment and weapons are similar to the Skoutatoi in the predominance of leather and padded coats over iron.

    Historically, the Menaulatoi are one of many units that have their names changed over the course of history but not necessarily their tactical role and functions.

    Unit type:
    MEDIUM CAVALRY

    Soldiers: 60
    Experience: 2
    Melee Attack: 12
    Attack skill due to training: 6
    - Quality of weapons: 3
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 3

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    STRONG (5)

    Weapon Type:
    Heavy: javelin and sword

    Total defence: 11
    - Amount of armour on individual: 3
    - Quality of the armour: 3
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 3
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 2

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 7)

    MORALE: NORMAL
    DISCIPLINE: NORMAL

    Notable abilities:
    missile attack

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    j) Hyperkerastai Hippotoxotai
    Native Hippotoxotai are a rarity in Rhomaic lands given their weakness in horseback archery. Due to migrations by outsiders into the empire bringing their skills on horseback, they have become a source for the small but effective native Rhomaikai Hippotoxotikai forces called the Hyperkerastai Hippotoxotai.

    Hyperkerastai (meaning “Outflankers”) are equipped n very much the same way as the Prokoursatores with exception to the lance. They are equipped with paramerion sabres and carry a quiver of 40 – 50 arrows and a powerful composite bow. They armour consists of padded coats and leather corselets to provide adequate protection and is complimented by a small 12 inch shield to allow the horsemen to fire their arrows with encumbrance from the weight of a shield.

    Historically, most horse archers are recruited as mercenaries from Steppe or Turkic peoples. Native Hippotoxotai are a rarity within the empire but recruited when available being more reliable and loyal than mercenaries are. Hyperkerastai are often descended from migrants into the empire such as the Iranian Khurramites or the Banu Habib who were primarily cavalrymen and carried the skill of archery with them. They served as effective border warriors before the great expansion under the military Emperors. Against foes like the Seljuqs it would probably be wise to train as many native Hyperkerastai as possible.

    Unit type:
    MEDIUM CAVALRY

    Soldiers: 40
    Experience: 3
    Melee Attack: 12
    Attack skill due to training: 6
    - Quality of weapons: 3
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 3

    Missile Attack: 7
    - Armour piercing ability: 3
    - Quality of missile weapons: 4

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    STRONG (7)

    Weapon Type:
    light: bow and sword

    Total defence: 11
    - Amount of armour on individual: 3
    - Quality of the armour: 3
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 3
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 2

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 8) for heavy and medium armoured cavalrymen on horseback

    MORALE: NORMAL
    DISCIPLINE: EXCELLENT

    Notable abilities:
    shoots with bow, cantabrian circle

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    k) Trapezitoi Hippakontistai
    Native Hippotoxotai are a rarity in Rhomaic lands given their weakness in horseback archery. Because of this, some cavalrymen serve as Trapezitoi Hippakontistai or javelineers on horseback. Given their mobility, they are excellent as skirmishers and also as pursuers of broken and defeated enemies. .

    Trapezitoi Hippakontistai are armoured quite lightly with a padded corselet and a leather helmet with leather strips or padded aventail to protect their necks. Besides their javelins, they carry close combat weapons such as a spathion. They also carry a small 12 inch shield in the same fashion as the Hippotoxotai do.

    Historically, the weakness in horse-archery meant substituting with other missile weapons like the sling or the javelin with the javelin being most favoured on horseback. Cavalrymen like these served as border warriors who conducted raids, reconnaissance missions or deterred raiders by matching them for speed and skill.

    Unit type:
    LIGHT CAVALRY

    Soldiers: 40
    Experience: 2
    Melee Attack: 10
    Attack skill due to training: 5
    - Quality of weapons: 2
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 3

    Missile Attack: 3
    - Armour piercing ability: 3
    - Quality of missile weapons: 3

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    MEDIUM (6)

    Weapon Type:
    light: javelin and sword

    Total defence: 9
    - Amount of armour on individual: 2
    - Quality of the armour: 3
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 3
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 1

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 7)

    MORALE: NORMAL

    DISCIPLINE: NORMAL

    Notable abilities:
    shoots with javelins, cantabrian circle

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    B -INFANTRY

    a) Tagma Varangon Pelekephoron (Varangian guard)
    The fame, wealth and prestige of Konstantinoupolis draws the world’s finest warriors from the reaches of the far north where the warriors are of hardy constitution, ferocious temperament, unshakeable loyalty, insatiable greed and an unnatural lust for warfare. To these men, Konstantinoupolis or “Miklagaard” (GreatCity), one’s fortune and future can be made. To the Basileus of the Rhomaicon Basileion, their outstanding fighting qualities, undying loyalty, naturally intimidating frame and countenance is worth his gold and his attention for they protect not only his very person and family, but also guard the “Queen of cities”..

    The Varangoi Pelekephoroi are named for their distinct use of double – handed and fearsome single-edged axes, hence, the epithet, “Pelekephoroi” (axe-bearers). A later written source in the 12th century and a pictorial source from Nea Moni (in Chios) suggest that even double-headed axes were used. However, they are known to use other weapons as well like spears, swords and even the bow. They carry either round shields or kite-shaped shields. As personal Imperial guardsmen of the Basileos they would be generously equipped with the best armour and weapons. Those who have remained in the service of the Basileos for a long time would show a distinct Rhomaic influence in their equipment by wearing lamellar cuirasses (knee or waist length) with the option of a mail lorika. Recent arrivals would probably be armoured in their own equipment, at minimum, a mail coat to the knees. Or, if they do not possess their own equipment, would be equipped with Rhomaic equipment and virtually indistinguishable with other native Rhomaic guardsmen. Some Varangoi however, can be distinguished by the nasal piece on their helmet derived from the military style of their homelands unlike native Rhomaic helmets which were of simpler construction. Additional pieces of armour are arm and leg guard vambraces of splint construction.
    Unlike most Rhomaioi, the physical proportions of the Pelekephoroi are much taller and larger. Anna Komnena, a contemporary compares them to “tall and strong palm trees”. Fully armoured and bristling with weapons, they present a formidable sight to the enemies of the empire and to the Basileos’ internal enemies who would attempt to harm the Vice-Regent of God on Earth. One can expect these men of the north to be ferocious in battle, loyal to death for their master and intimidate their enemies with their discipline and vigour.
    Varangoi can also be mounted. However, they do not serve as heavy cavalrymen, as they would often dismount and fight on foot after arriving on the battlefield. No advantage will be gained by having them fighting on horseback as their inexperience would penalize, not improve, their fighting ability. On the battlefield, their primary task is to protect the Basileus and not so much to engage in combat with the enemy unless the situation demands the deployment of Varangoi like the battle of Abydos when they ambushed rebel forces with vicious decisiveness and butchery.

    Historically, there were “Varangoi” serving in the Rhomaicon Straton before Basil II Bulgaroktonos formalized them into a separate and unique regiment (and most likely a regiment in the Great section of the Hetaereia). The Rhomaioi had also encountered them as enemies under Svjatoslav in the 10th century as formidable infantrymen. Originally, they came from Scandinavia, but also as afar as Iceland. I066 is generally considered the date when Danish and English elements of the Varangoi increased after the Battle of Hastings put many of them to flight so that exiled Huscarls and Thegns found armed service in the Varangika Tagmata . Niketas Choniates, a source for 12th century describes the personality and character of the Varangoi Pelekephoroi when he gives them the appellations of “wine-bags” to denote their fondness of intoxicating drinks. In the same token, he gives them the appellation of the Basileos’ “jewels” if the words of Basileus Ioannis I Komnenos are to be believed when asked to risk his Varangoi in a dangerous situation. The high pay and salary of the Varangoi was cited at around 150-170 nomismata per annum in addition to generous donatives, bonuses and loot from campaigns. Harald “Hardraada” Sigurdsson III, a famous Norwegian King, served as a Varangos in the 11th century amassing a vast treasure hoard that assisted him in his attainment of the throne of Norway. However, a Varangos must first pay and entrance fee much like the Hetaereia. Fortunately, that investment can be recouped very quickly after a few years of service.

    Unit type:
    HEAVY INFANTRY

    Soldiers: 40
    Experience: 4
    Melee Attack: 15
    Attack skill due to training: 7
    - Quality of weapons: 4
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 4

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    IRRESISTIBLE: 9

    Weapon Type:
    Heavy: Axe

    Total defence: 15
    - Amount of armour on individual: 4
    - Quality of the armour: 4
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 4
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 3

    Shield: 4
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (7)

    MORALE: EXCELLENT
    DISCIPLINE: EXCELLENT

    Notable abilities:
    Armour piercing axe

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    b) Basilikoi Hoplitai tes Hetaereias
    The Basilike Hetaereia are foreign bodyguards in the service of the Basileos. Their name “Hetaereia” denotes their closeness to the Basileos as “Hetaeros” (Comrade, Companion) and indicates the trust of the Basileos in their “comrades” to protect him against the intrigues of palace life. There is not much detail on their equipment and appearance. However, we do know they are mercenaries from different regions of the world with Chazaroi and Pharganoi as distinct ethnikoi mentioned. Other ethnikoi such as Rhos/Varangoi, Saracenoi (Arabs/Muslims), Frankoi and Alammanoi (Germans) are identified.
    For the infantry segment of the Basilike Hetaereia, the main ethnikoi would be either Rhos/Varangoi, Chazaroi and Pharganoi. Their armour would be at minimum a chain mail lorikion with possibility of a lamellar klibanion over the lorikion. Helmet could be from the Basilikon Armamenton or from the guard’s own native equipment which in either case be a distinct pointed Central Asian segmented construction helmet or an iron helmet with a nasal guard. As a prestigious bodyguard unit of the Basileos, they can wear “uniforms” such as cloaks or clothe material which identified their elite status. Their weapons would consist of a kontarion (spear), a spathion (sword) or paramerion (one edged saber) and a hand axe called a Tzikourion (also used by the Rhos/Varangoi, Chazaroi and Pharganoi). For shields, they can carry an oval shaped Skutarion or the common Kite-shaped shield.

    In accompanying the Basileus on campaign, they serve more as bodyguards than as deployable troops on the field. When appropriate, they can serve as reliable heavy infantrymen reinforcing the centre or weak sections of the army’s deployment.

    Historically, the Hetaereia accompanied the Basileus in battle and are placed close to him in fortified camps compared to other Tagmatikoi Stratiotikoi as specified by military manuals in the 10th century. They also served as imperial guardsmen in the palaces of the capital. Entrance into the Hetaereia was a much sought after privilege which required a paid sum to enter (and if physically appropriate to the task). There were different levels of entrance fees as the Hetaereia was divided into Great, Middle and Little sections. Fees range from the princely sum of 16 pounds (1 pound of gold equals 72 gold nomismata) to as low as roughly 10 pounds of gold. From the mid 11th century, however, there was a shift in the recruitment of “Hetaereiotai” from mercenaries to the noble young men of Constantinople. But in 1066, the foreign ethnikoi would still be a strong element as the central government seemed to still have large numbers of mercenaries in the Basilika Tagmata.

    Unit type:
    HEAVY INFANTRY

    Soldiers: 40
    Experience: 3
    Melee Attack: 13
    Attack skill due to training: 6
    - Quality of weapons: 4
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 3

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    STRONG: 8

    Weapon Type:
    Heavy: Kontarion spear and mace

    Total defence: 13
    - Amount of armour on individual: 3
    - Quality of the armour: 4
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 3
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 3

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 7)

    MORALE: EXCELLENT
    DISCIPLINE: EXCELLENT

    Notable abilities:
    armour-piercing mace, shield wall

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    c) Basilika Tagmata Hopliton
    The Basilika Tagmata Hopliton are the elite infantry units based in the capital who serve as both palatial guards and man the important triple walls of Konstantinoupolis.

    Their equipment is similar to professional Tagmatikoi Hoplitai based in the Thema and consists of a lamellar klibanion lined with characteristic fringed leather pteryges. Better equipped Hoplitai may choose to wear a chain mail lorikion underneath or a padded coat. As weapons they carry a kontarion and a spathion. Other weapons also include siderorabdia maces but the spathion was more common. As shields they carried either a kite-shaped shield or a large round shield. However, the former was more dominant in this period. As guardsmen they are not expected to fight in field battles as their cavalry counterparts in the Tagmata often did. But there is reason to believe they were well-trained and experienced as they would consist of professional soldiers picked for their bravery and military abilities in battles.

    Historically, the Basilika Tagmata Hopliton were part composed from several sources of manpower. First there were those that came from ancient guardsmen regiments that survived and incorporated as Tagmatikoi Hoplitai. Then there were those who derived from the reforms of Constantine V when he created the Tagmata in the 8th century. Altogether they form the Basilika Tagmata Hopliton, guardsmen of the glorious ‘Queen of Cities”.

    Unit type:
    HEAVY INFANTRY

    Soldiers: 60
    Experience: 3
    Melee Attack: 13
    Attack skill due to training: 6
    - Quality of weapons: 4
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 3

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    STRONG (7)

    Weapon Type:
    Heavy: lance and sword

    Total defence: 12
    - Amount of armour on individual: 3
    - Quality of the armour: 4
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 3
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 2

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 7)

    MORALE: EXCELLENT

    DISCIPLINE: EXCELLENT

    Notable abilities:
    shield wall

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    d) Skoutatoi
    With the Rhomaic renaissance of the 10th century and the revival of the military, the infantrymen found themselves as part of an important tactical component of the Rhomaic military strategy as counter-units against enemy cavalry and also as a firm base to execute stratagems.

    Despite depictions of well-armed and armoured Skoutatoi, the reality is that most Skoutatoi were not as lavishly equipped with lamellar corselets and iron helmets. That was reserved for elite infantry units or more experienced and wealthier soldiers. The sources indicate frontline infantrymen wore iron armour which included arm and leg armour. In lieu of such equipment, the majority of the Skoutatoi wore leather padded corselets which served as adequate protection for the most part. They also wore hardened leather as helmets – sometimes of iron – with leather strips or padded aventails to protect their necks.
    Their weapons reflect their tactical role as infantrymen. They are armed with long kontarion spears measuring around 4 metres long. They also carry a long kite-shaped shield which they interlock with their comrades to form an impenetrable shield barrier. For close combat, they use a xiphos or spathion – a long sword.

    Historically, Skoutatoi were for the main part unarmoured infantrymen militia who found their position improved under military Emperors like Ioannis I Tzimiskes and Nikephoros II Phokas and equipped with improved equipment, renewed discipline and pride. After the death of Basil II Bulgaroktonos, however, the Skoutatoi like most Thematikoi were neglected and left to decline to point where most Skoutatoi were replaced by mercenaries or had fallen to the standards of poor substandard militiamen.

    Unit type:
    MEDIUM INFANTRY

    Soldiers: 60
    Experience: 3
    Melee Attack: 12
    Attack skill due to training: 6
    - Quality of weapons: 3
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 3

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    MEDIUM (6)

    Weapon Type:
    Heavy: lance and sword

    Total defence: 10
    - Amount of armour on individual: 3
    - Quality of the armour: 2
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 3
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 2

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 7)

    MORALE: NORMAL
    DISCIPLINE: NORMAL

    Notable abilities:
    shield wall

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    e) Thematikoi Hoplitai Kontaratoi
    Thematikoi Hoplitai Kontaratoi make up the bulk of the Stratos of the Rhomaioi and are descended from the Thematic organization of the empire centuries earlier. Unlike their early predecessors, the Hoplitai are more like militia infantry than professional soldiers.

    The Thematikoi Hoplitai Kontaratoi are militia men with the most basic of equipped and perhaps even lower. This is due in part to the neglect of successive Emperors after the great Basil II Bulgaroktonos. The infantrymen based in the provinces find themselves deprived of pay and therefore of proper military equipment. For those who are fortunate enough to scrape together whatever they have are equipped with a helmet of leather stock or iron – rarely available – and fight unarmoured. They carry as a minimum, a shield, either round or kite-shaped. For weapons, they carry a kontarion and a sword.
    As their name suggests, they are lancers who use the kontarion. They also carry a spathion for close engagements. For protection, they carry a kite-shaped shield.

    Historically, Thematikoi Hoplitai were obsolete a long time ago, their existence is more of a leftover of better times than reflective of the times they are in now. In the face of increasing Seljuq raids from 1050s onwards, they were inadequate and woeful in stopping the enemy from penetrating the rich and deep lands of Asia Minor where once the mighty Arab dynasties of the Ummayads and Abbasids were taught a healthy respect for Rhomaic arms. They disappeared in formality after Manzikert. But Manuel Komnenos revived them for last time.

    Unit type:
    MEDIUM INFANTRY

    Soldiers: 80
    Experience: 1
    Melee Attack: 8
    Attack skill due to training: 5
    - Quality of weapons: 1
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 2

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    WEAK (4)

    Weapon Type:
    Light: lance and sword

    Total defence: 4
    - Amount of armour on individual: 1
    - Quality of the armour: 1
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 1
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 1

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 7)

    MORALE: WEAK
    DISCIPLINE: WEAK

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    f) Thematikoi Peltastai
    The decline of the Rhomaicos Stratos in the 11th century meant the decline in military standards and effectiveness for the empire. This led to half-measures and recruitment of whatever military manpower they could muster. Units such as the Thematikoi Peltastai supplemented the army in these dire times. Some of them are even infantrymen who have fallen on hard times and have devolved into something other than “soldiers” mainly filling their time with the need to grind a living through farming and hunting.

    Thematikoi Peltastai are basically javelineers who in part derive their skills more from non-military activities such as hunting and farming than to serving in the army. They are, in effect, make-shift “soldiers” taken into service. However, their non-military activities have at least sharpened their physical senses and can be quite useful in battle by showering the enemy with a hail of javelins honed by hunting. A commander should not expect more than this from the Peltastai. In close combat, their lack of training is obvious as they are not prepared for that kind of situation and will most certainly flee at the application of pressure.

    Historically, Thematikoi Peltastai are make-shift soldiers who use to be regular soldiers but declined to appalling levels under weak Emperors. They often serve as light infantry units who make up the bulk of the Rhomaic forces. They are sometimes turned into garrison soldiers when not relied upon for military service. And rarely are they ever called into important military conflicts seeing as their pay has been taken to hire mercenaries to replace them.

    Unit type:
    LIGHT MISSILE
    Soldiers: 60
    Experience: 1
    Melee Attack: 7
    Attack skill due to training: 4
    - Quality of weapons: 1
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 2

    Missile Attack: 5
    - Armour piercing ability: 3
    - Quality of missile weapons: 2

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    WEAK (3)

    Weapon Type:
    light: javelin and dagger

    Total defence: 4
    - Amount of armour on individual: 1
    - Quality of the armour: 1
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 1
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 1

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 7)

    MORALE: WEAK
    DISCIPLINE: WEAK

    Notable abilities:
    missiles

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    g) Thematikoi Toxotai
    Like the Peltastoi, they are Thematikoi who have been degraded over decades to evolve from soldiers into half-rate conscripts and farmers whose main occupation is something other than fighting and defending the army. However, they can be useful.

    Thematikoi Toxotai are armed with Toxon (bows) used mainly for hunting rather than fighting. Continual use of the bow has its advantages when the Rhomaioi require competent archers in their battles against supremely skilled enemies well-versed with the bow and arrow. In any situation, they can be used to disorientate an army and rain down a hail of arrows against them. They are unarmoured and carry the most minimal of weapons. In this case, however, they are armed with a small hand axe for close combat. Even so, they are not expected to be called up for close combat encounters and will most likely flee in the face of pressure.

    Historically, archery has been the weakness of the Rhomaic armies. Foot archery, fortunately, has a better history amongst native Rhomaioi than the Hippotoxotai. Even more fortunate is that particular regions of the empire yield competent and expert infantry archers so as to provide a counter-measure against enemies who excel with the bow.

    Unit type:
    MISSILE INFANTRY

    Soldiers: 60
    Experience: 1
    Melee Attack: 7
    Attack skill due to training: 4
    - Quality of weapons: 1
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 2

    Missile Attack: 5
    - Armour piercing ability: 3
    - Quality of missile weapons: 2

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    WEAK (3)

    Weapon Type:
    light: bow and axe

    Total defence: 4
    - Amount of armour on individual: 1
    - Quality of the armour: 1
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 1
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 1

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 7)

    MORALE: WEAK
    DISCIPLINE: WEAK

    Notable abilities:
    missiles


    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    i) Taxeis Sphendoniton
    Taxeis Sphendoniton are levied troops from the Themata. They are of low quality and serve specific functions that are supportive rather than critical.

    Sphendonistai are armed with slings that when used properly can cause serious injury to the enemy. They are best used as support troops behind the front line and as a last resort to be involved in a melee as they are poorly trained for close combat situations. They are armed with daggers and are unarmoured.

    Historically, slingers are levied troops making the best of what they have to survive in battle. As levied troops, there is not much expected from them.

    Unit type:
    MISSILE INFANTRY

    Soldiers: 60
    Experience: 1
    Melee Attack: 7
    Attack skill due to training: 4
    - Quality of weapons: 1
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 2

    Missile Attack: 5
    - Armour piercing ability: 3
    - Quality of missile weapons: 2

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    WEAK (3)

    Weapon Type:
    light: bow and axe

    Total defence: 4
    - Amount of armour on individual: 1
    - Quality of the armour: 1
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 1
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 1

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 7)

    MORALE: WEAK
    DISCIPLINE: WEAK

    Notable abilities:
    missiles

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    j) Tagmatikoi Toxotai
    Each thema has its core of professional full time Thematikoi Stratiotai which in turn are recognized as Tagmatikoi to separate them from their part-time militia Thematikoi counterparts. The Thematikoi Tagmatikoi Toxotai are Stratiotai who can afford to equip themselves according to the requirements expected for military service.

    Unlike most infantry archers, the Tagmatikoi Toxotai are amongst the best equipped and paid native Rhomaioi in the empire. Their competence and expertise with the bow has made them valuable recruits serving not just in important cities of the Themata but also as Tagmatikoi based in the capital manning the important Triple Walls of Konstantinoupolis. They are armoured with padded leather corselets of ? inch thickness flanked with pteryges. They have an iron helmet with either leather strips or padded or mail aventails. Apart from their obvious panoply of a toxon (bow) and quiver, they also carry a close combat in the form of the curved paramerion sabre. Like other regular troops, they wear high quality boots with extra padding for protection. In battle, they would form behind a strong infantry line and unleash volleys against the enemy. In facing adversaries who excel in horse archery, the advantage for them is the longer distance gained from foot archers using the composite bow which the Tagmatikoi Toxotai are equipped with.

    Historically, the Rhomaioi were weak in the use of the bow. But for natives who mastered it, there was always employment in the Stratos for them. The best archers would be recruited for important positions in the capital or provincial capitals or taken on campaigns where their skills would be most critical.

    Unit type:
    MISSILE INFANTRY

    Soldiers: 40
    Experience: 3
    Melee Attack: 13
    Attack skill due to training: 6
    - Quality of weapons: 4
    - Training of the unit in use of weapon(s): 3

    Missile Attack: 7
    - Armour piercing ability: 3
    - Quality of missile weapons: 4

    Charge Bonus (out of 10):
    MEDIUM (6)

    Weapon Type:
    heavy: bow and sword

    Total defence: 11
    - Amount of armour on individual: 4
    - Quality of the armour: 2
    Defensive Skill: defensive ability of individual out of 10 and judged from following components
    - Defensive skill due to training: 3
    - Defensive skill in use of defensive equipment (shield): 2

    Shield: 1
    Hit Points: 1 all units

    Recruitment Cost: to be determined
    Upkeep: to be determined

    Speed:
    - MEDIUM (score of 7)

    MORALE: NORMAL
    DISCIPLINE: EXCELLENT

    Notable abilities:
    missiles

    Please correct this list if you have more informations. But this is currently complete list. Army 1071-1204.
    I'll ask also byzklibanophoroi for pics, i have many byzklib similar concept arts like on this site.
    - http://www.twcenter.net/forums/showthread.php?t=76780
    Last edited by Manuel Komnenos; June 06, 2007 at 06:40 PM.
    Why we dig up the past? To understand it.

  3. #123

    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    very good description of byzantine unit

    roster is usufull as well

    respect
    Through your intercession I hope to see the light of Thy son and the light of everlasting ages !

  4. #124
    Manuel Komnenos's Avatar Senator
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    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    I must one more time point out that great part for this go to byzantineklibanophori, I have only set order in it, and added few new info.
    Thanks for rep.
    Why we dig up the past? To understand it.

  5. #125

    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    I applaud your efforts, Komnenos.

    I feel a lot of attention needs to be payed to Byzantium and here is why.

    Although their history is now forgotten to a large extent because their civilization was destroyed and no one really identifies with their history anymore, they were the original buttress in the clashes with islam and christianity and, although their power was now waning and receiding, they were still the biggest, richest, most advanced state at the time of the game.

    The complexity of their culture, and the abundance of information they have left us about it, makes this a real opportunity to exploit to create a really full and rich faction in this mod Broken Crescent.
    Last edited by bacchus731; June 11, 2007 at 12:32 PM.

  6. #126

    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    The only people who even remotely in modern times could identify themselves with the Byzantium are the Greeks, and more specifically the Greek movement that waged to war against Turkey after World War I to reinvigorate and give rebirth to Hellenistic Constantinople.

    No one else can really even remotely identify themselves with them, save a few guys who lost a war, what? 80 years ago?

  7. #127
    Manuel Komnenos's Avatar Senator
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    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    No one can indentify with Byzantium because Byzantium never existed. We can only indentify with Rhomaoi, or Romans, because that was real name of this people, or with Basileia tōn Rōmaiōn or Roman Empire.
    Last edited by Manuel Komnenos; June 12, 2007 at 10:57 AM.
    Why we dig up the past? To understand it.

  8. #128
    teh.frickin.pope's Avatar Senator
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    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    Yes, the Roman Empire did not end with Odoacer, it ended in 1453, with the final capture of Nea Roma, more popularly known as Constantinopolis, or Constantine's City.

    Broken Crescent, Its Frickin Awesome! Sig by Atterdag +rep
    Stop Uwe Boll!

  9. #129

    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    Some armor/helmet ideas for the Varangi guard... Could also be used for Viking mercenaries, for that is what Varangi were. Russian/Skandinavian Viking mercs.

    http://www.myarmoury.com/talk/viewtopic.php?t=6486
    Go Minerwars Go! A 6DOF game of space mining and shooting. SAKA Co-FC, Koinon Hellenon FC, Epeiros FC. RS Hellenistic Historian K.I.S.S.




  10. #130
    John I Tzimisces's Avatar Get born again.
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    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    Quote Originally Posted by teh.frickin.pope View Post
    Yes, the Roman Empire did not end with Odoacer, it ended in 1453, with the final capture of Nea Roma, more popularly known as Constantinopolis, or Constantine's City.
    Technically it ended in 1204, but a successor state (two, rather, the Komnenoi survived in Trebizond for a while) to that successor state of the roman empire did live on.

  11. #131
    Manuel Komnenos's Avatar Senator
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    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    In 1204? No, it clearly ended in 1453. In that year Constantinople(real symbol of Byzantine Empire from 330 onwards finally fall), and with it last basileus). Shortly after the crown, symbols of the state and byzantine princess went to Moscow(so called third Rome). Real irony is that from Paleologos time(the Empire in full disarray) we have most written sources.
    Why we dig up the past? To understand it.

  12. #132
    mrcrusty's Avatar Primicerius
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    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    Manuel is right. Even if the city fell to the crusaders in 1204, it was re-established, and the title of Basileus (and royal bloodline) was still used for Byzantine Emperors until it fell in 1453.

    Still... you could make an arguement that post 1261 Byzantine Empire was really just the Empire of Nicaea since after Constantinople fell in 1204, the empire fractured into 3 successor states: Trebizond, Nicaea and Epirus.


  13. #133
    Manuel Komnenos's Avatar Senator
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    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    But at the end Nicea won, and the capital became again Constantinople, even worse Nicea was soon lost for forever.
    Why we dig up the past? To understand it.

  14. #134
    Zenith Darksea's Avatar Ορθοδοξία ή θάνατος!
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    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    If you ask me, they should have just stayed in Nicaea and consolidated their Anatolian power base. Constantinople was pretty much wrecked by the time they got it back, and proved to simply be a drain on resources. Perhaps, if they'd become powerful enough in Nicaea, they could eventually have gone back to Constantinople anyway, but in my view it was time for them to just move on.

  15. #135
    mrcrusty's Avatar Primicerius
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    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    It was prolly more of a symbolic thing, having Constantinople, trying to restore the old Roman glory kinda thing.
    I think you were right, but they were afraid of the Mongols to focus their resources there, as long as the Seljuks were stuck in civil wars and served as a buffer between them and the Mongols, recapturing Constantinople was a much better and worthwhile cause to them.

    What bothers me though was that even though they were all wanting to re-unite Constantinople and the Empire, Nicaea, Trebizond and Epirus were at war most of the time, they would've saved a lot of time working as a united entity, gotten back Constantinople possibly years earlier and have more time to prepare against the Turks and consolidate Anatolia.

    I mean... it ended up being the Palaeologan dynasty when Nicaea won back Constantinople but if a united army under the Empire of Trebizond invaded, the Byzantines may have had a second Komnenos dynasty...

    oh well... all what ifs.

    Anyways... I'm excited about what you guys can do with the Byzantines and excited about the mod in general.
    Keep up the great work.


  16. #136

    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    mrcrusty, that's a nice sig, +rep for that,

    +rep for me if you agree with me , i might give it right back to you

  17. #137

    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    Well, it has come to that. Byzantine Empire. The empire all us Greeks called Home for more than 1000 years, even if they would kill anyone who called them Greeks, opting for "Romaioi" instead...

    Anyways, I have made no secret that I am a fan of BC, and thus I scavenged the NET for some pics of Military saints (Brother St. Theodoroi, and St. Georgios not to mention St. Demetrios and others) OF THE ERA THAT BC IS ON, as a way to further enhance the images of Osprey, and ease the work of your graphic artists, when you do make your Byzantines.



    and


    and


    and


    and some riders,


    and a byzantine spatha-, (not the business end) a sword that they byzantines used until the very end...


    BC, Keep up the GREAT work! :thumbsup4

    ---Just one thing that needs to be clear...
    In many ways Byzantine art was consciously backward looking, with a cultivated taste for Ancient Hellenic and Roman styles. In the conservative milieu of the metropolitan workshops artists drew on earlier archetypes, not current fashions . Warriors in Byzantine ivories are therefore usually descended from two sets of Late Antique models - the Biblical story of Joshua, or the mythological war of Dionysus with India
    Thus the above are correct, but up to a point. They should be SUPPLEMENTAL of osprey, not in clash with it.
    Last edited by Keravnos; July 06, 2007 at 06:46 PM.
    Go Minerwars Go! A 6DOF game of space mining and shooting. SAKA Co-FC, Koinon Hellenon FC, Epeiros FC. RS Hellenistic Historian K.I.S.S.




  18. #138
    Indefinitely Banned
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    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    Thanks a lot for the pics Keravnos!

  19. #139

    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    Greetings, I've been following this mod for awhile now(mostly been lurking) must say this mod sounds awesome. I know you guys planned on expanding alittle westward, but decided not to. I was wondering in future releases if you would include maybe just Greece? So to give the Byzantines more of a foothold.

  20. #140

    Default Re: FACTION: The Byzantine Empire

    Quote Originally Posted by S.W.A.T View Post
    Greetings, I've been following this mod for awhile now(mostly been lurking) must say this mod sounds awesome. I know you guys planned on expanding alittle westward, but decided not to. I was wondering in future releases if you would include maybe just Greece? So to give the Byzantines more of a foothold.
    At the moment there's no plans to expand the map, but this may or may not change in the future. Right now while they do lack greece, they also lack the troublesome Hungarians and Venetians, and with easy access to Rhodes and Crete, along with Cyprus, they already have quite a strong foothold.

    Just for now, it's not in our plans.

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