DBA Armies

This list covers the Burmese army from the foundation of the kingdom of Pyu (circa 500) until its destruction by the Nan- chao in 832; and then from the founding of the kingdoms of Pagan and Pegu in 849 until the start of King Tabinshweti of Toungoo’s campaigns of re-unification. It includes Pagan’s flowering, its overthrow by the Yuan Mongols and its shift to a new capital at Ava. Before the unification of Burma in 1044 by King Anawrahta, the army was mainly infantry with few elephants, but he shifted the emphasis to massed elephants. Contemporary sources describe Burmese elephant crew as 12-16 and 8-10, but it has been suggested that only 4 rode in a howdah while the rest walked alongside. However, a late account from “Cochin China” (southern Vietnam) describes a two-tier platform carrying 14 men (3 top and 3 below on each side and 2 behind). Kings rode a white elephant with a gold chain ornamented with precious stones around its neck; and some battles were decided by personal combat. Cavalry were recruited from the Shan, occupiers of the extensive grass lands in Burma. They were shield-less, wore quilted armour and had black or white bull’s hair at the heads of their spears. Some generals led raids on horses disguised as dragons. Guard infantry wore gilt helmets and quilted black cotton jackets and fought with sword and shield. Other foot were more numerous than efficient. Archers could have either bows or crossbows, but were out-shot by dismounted Mongols. The standard tactic was a mass charge by elephants in the centre, possibly supported by foot, with foot guards in a second line protecting the general and cavalry supported by foot trying to outflank. Reference: Armies of Medieval Burma AD700-1300 D. Mersey.