ORGANISATION

Russia was alone amongst her contemporaries in not having any Horse regiments, the mounted forces being entirely made up of Dragoons or irregular light cavalry. As with the Foot, the preferred organisation for Dragoons was outlined by the Tsar at different times during his reign:

YEAR	NO OF MEN PER TROOP	NO OF TROOPS	TOTAL NO OF MEN
1699	80-100	10	800-1000
1704	120	10	1200
1711	140	10	1400
1720	120	10	1200

All the regulations allowed for the inclusion of at least two regimental artillery pieces, and for the regiment to fight in two divisions. Organisation was very similar to that of the Foot. The 1711 ordinance is especially interesting, as it provides for three 3 lbrs and four mortars, or alternatively, four 4 lbers and four mortars! Whilst impressive on paper, this mobile battery seems to have made little impact, as by 1720, the artillery contingent was back to its original size.

UNIFORM

As mounted infantry, Dragoons wore essentially the same style of clothing as the Foot, with the addition of light riding boots. While mounted the musket was carried by means of a bandolier and swivel clip. All comments regarding infantry uniforms apply to Dragoons, including the medley of styles and colour. In 1720, the uniform was finally fixed, being a blue coat, with white collar and cuffs, a leather waistcoat and breeches, and blue stockings.

TACTICS

Despite their large numbers, the Dragoons do not seem to have functioned well as true cavalry, no doubt being outclassed by their formidable Swedish foes. However, they fought well as mounted infantry, the battles around Lesnaja in 1708 showing them off to their best advantage. Their dismounted role was emphasised by a lack of pistols, their place on the saddle being taken by such items as axes, stakes or sharpened shovels.

More GNW Uniforms: Russia

Introduction
The Foot
The Dragoons
Artillery
Infantry Colours (Chart)