Monday 24 November 2008

More cavalry for Italy

The Frundsberg Frei Stadt is pleased to announce the formation of a light dragoon regiment to serve with the KuK forces in Northern Italy. Here they are parading with the Austrian Lichtenstein Hussars prior to crossing the alps

The regiment was formed from detachment of the 3rd cavalry regiment, hence the green facings. Various items of equipment were sourced from stocks of Hanoverian army surplus, hence the British style light dragoon helmet.

Saturday 8 November 2008

Aufklarungskorps

Because of their mode of operation the Frundsberg Aufklarungskorps is rarely spotted. But a member was recently observed following a unit of Swedish dragoons
The role of this small but effective formation is to discover information on actual and potential enemy movements. To this end they wear a green uniform to aid concealment and are mounted on fast horses to ensure a fast get-away if needed.

Monday 3 November 2008

The cavalry arrives in Italy

The empire has dispatched more forces across the Alps to tackle the growing French presence. realising the lack of cavalry the Kriegsrat has sent two regiments of dragoons, the Austrian regiment Kaiser (left) and the Frundsberg Sommerland regiment (right). It is hoped that the French will not commence offensive operations before sufficient artillery support is provided.

In addition to these forces the Empire has contracted with the Frundsberg Frei Stadt to provide a light dragoon regiment.
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Gentlemen of perception may discern that the figure used for the units come from the Italeri Prussian Cuirassier set, which had been waiting for an opportunity to be used for many years. The light dragoons will be sourced from the AWI British Light Dragoon set.
The Austrian uniform for uniform for dragoons and light horse was in a state of flux in the period and I've opted for an early uniform for the Kaiser Dragoons. Although I could use my Napoleonic Austrian Artillery I'd rather find something more in period if possible.
Will