Light Infantry (ETW Unit)
| Light Infantry (ETW Unit) | |
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| Melee Attack | |
| Ranged Attack | |
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| Recruitment Cost | 790 |
| Upkeep Cost | 190 |
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Light Infantry
Unit Description
Light infantry are skirmishers who excel at harassing the enemy while screening the main body of an army.
Initiative, aggression and pace of action mark these men out and they consider themselves a cut above other infantry, regardless of the title they use. Light infantry, jaegers or chasseurs do not mindlessly follow orders, but pick and choose their own ground and targets, using such cover as they can find. They carry standard smothbore, muzzle-loading muskets, but they do not rely on massed volley fire: they deliberately aim (as well as they can, given that muskets lack sights), at individuals in the enemy ranks. This selective fire can disrupt enemy formations or drive off enemy skirmishers. Over time, developments in tactics and weapons make them very effective as snipers, as well as covering forces.
In 1700, many european nations did not recruit light infantry regiments. Each Line infantry regiment had a light company, but the mass volley was the proper way to employ firepower. As irregular light troops proved their worth and native tribes refused to co-operate by refusing to fight formal, set piece battles it was realised that collecting together light companies in ad hoc regiments was no longer enough. Direct recruitment of light infantry regiments began in earnest, and by the end of the 18th century every army fielded fast, light regiments.
Statistics
Factional Differences
Many factions own unique light infantry like the Austrian Jaegers and the British Rangers. Another version is the British Green Jackets
Tactics
Light Infantry are best used to shield an armies advance.
Early in the battle send a line forward to stall the enemies advance. Due to the extra range Light Infantry have it is possible to pick off some enemy soldiers before falling back.
This way you can have zero casualties whilst inflicting some on the enemy.
Light Infantry can also deploy spike to protect hard points from Calvary attack.
