Tirailleurs (ETW Unit)
| Tirailleurs (ETW Unit) | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Class | Light Infantry |
| Unit Size | 80 Men |
| Weaponry | Rifles |
| Morale | |
| Melee Attack | |
| Ranged Attack | |
| Defence | |
| Charge Bonus | |
| Accuracy | |
| Range | |
| Ammunition | |
| Region | France |
| Recruitment Cost | 670 |
| Upkeep Cost | 180 |
| Turns to Build | |
| Unit Limit | |
| Building Requirements | Army Board |
| Technology Requirements | Machined Rifling |
| Attributes | |
Light infantry forces form a skirmish line to slow the enemy advance and keep their own line unmolested by enemy skirmishers.
Overview
Whether they are called light infantry, jaegers, tirailleurs or chasseurs à pied, it is the job of these men to screen the main battle line, harass the enemy and, if possible, pick off important men in the enemy’s ranks. Unlike their fellows in the line infantry, light infantrymen are trained to think for themselves, use the ground and cover intelligently, and not fight in rigid lines. Instead, they form a loose skirmish line and fire independently at their own designated targets. The effect is a constant, low-level barrage rather than the crashing thunder of a volley but the effect is quite deadly as officers and sergeants are picked off and removed from the fight. Against cavalry, however, their best defence is to withdraw to their own battle line.
Historically, the Austrians were widely regarded as producing the finest light infantry forces in Europe. Other nations did catch up, but in the case of Britain and France it was their experiences in fighting in North America that persuaded them of the wisdom of light troops. Battle lines were simply impossible to manage in the dense woodlands, and largely pointless against the native tribes!
Details
Tirailleurs are the French variant of the generic Riflemen. They are recruitable only in France itself. Tirailleurs are long-range light infantry with slightly superior defense and charge bonuses to Riflemen. Light Infantry such as the Tirailleurs should be used to harass the enemy lines and combat other Light Infantry. However Due to their low melee statistics they should be kept well away from any melee situations, especially Cavalry charges.
