DBA Armies

II/23 LATER PRE-ISLAMIC ARAB 312 BC - 633 AD

This list covers all the minor independent Arab peoples between the widespread introduction of the horse and the conversion of most Arabians to Islam. It includes wealthy trading centres such as Yathrib (later Medina), Mecca and the cities of Oman, the agricultural kingdoms of the Yemen and powerful desert nomad tribes ruled by dynasties such as the Kinda, Lakhmids and Ghassanids. The Roman collective name for all these peoples was “Saraceni” (people of the tents - although this etymology is disputed). Nomad horsemen are assumed to be unarmoured and to skirmish with light lances for loot and honour. Camels were ridden in battle by men not rich enough to possess horses. Foot warriors fought as individuals but keeping in line. Those from Yemen favoured javelins, but others emphasized the sword, sometimes with bow or spear. The Arab sword was the long straight “saif”, not a scimitar, and was used with a round hide shield. References: Annies of the Macedonian and Punic Wars D. Head, Armies and Enemies of Imperial Rome P. Barker.

II/23a — Nomad Arab Army 312 BC - 633 AD

List: 1 x General (LH or Cv), 1 x light horse (LH), 1 x scouts (LCm), 4 x camel-riders (Cm) or swordsmen (4Bd), 2 x swordsmen (4Bd), 1 x swordsmen (4Bd) or archers (3Bw), 1 x archers (3Bw or Ps), 1 x slingers (Ps)
Terrain: Dry
Aggression: 3
Enemies:
Allies: II/69a or II/69b or II/69c or III/17

II/23b — City Arab Army 312 BC - 633 AD

List: 1 x General (Cv), 1 x light horse (LH), 1 x scouts (LCm), 6 x swordsmen (4Bd), 2 x archers (3Bw), 1 x archers (3Bw or Ps)
Terrain: Dry
Aggression: 0
Enemies:
Allies: II/23a

II/23c — Yemeni Army 312 BC - 633 AD

List: 1 x General (Cv), 1 x light horse (LH), 1 x camel riders (LCm) or slingers (Ps), 1 x warriors (4Bd) or javelinmen (3Ax), 7 x javelinmen (3Ax), 1 x archers (3Bw or Ps)
Terrain: Dry
Aggression: 0
Enemies:
Allies: II/69a or II/69b or II/69c