Castellan, Cavalry (Equestas)

The Equestas formation is the Ahntier Cavalry, well trained soldiers who are experts in the handling of their mounts. The pounding hooves of a cavalry charge have broken more than one enemy before the infantry even needed to clash.
Unlike other forms of Castellan, an Equestas contains only 50 soldiers. This is due to the additional cost of upkeep for horses.

Composition

Manpower

1 Custodi 1 Optio 50 Lancers 52 Horses 20 Logistic Personnel

Equipment

An Equastas carries all the gear necessary for the maintenance of gear and the care of the horses. Due to the specialized nature of this form of Castellan, the Equestas does not carry any engineering equipment, but does bring additional gear used for foraging.

Weaponry

Chain Mail Armor, Lances, Long Swords. Horses are shoed, and barded in a kind of splint mail.

Vehicles

Horses.

Structure

The Custodi and the Optio split the Equestas into two lances of 25 cavalry when the battle commences. This unit can split off from one another and wheel in different directions. Or come together as a single whole.

Tactics

Equestas are most effectively used to harass the flanks of enemy formations, and try to reach the rear to engage. A cavalry charge can also break an enemy infantry formation, or counter the enemy cavalry.

Training

Two years of basic training, followed by a four year mandatory service. Training continues afield.

Type

Cavalry

Overall training Level

Trained

Parent Formation

Crusade

Used by

• The Empire of Ahntier

Ranks & Titles

• Custodi
• Decanus
• Optio