The battle formation adopted by the Turks was that of a basic three line defense. Even when they were on the strategic offensive, they would adopt a defensive mode in battle. The first line consisted of two flank forces of cavalry and a central one of foot. These units were made up of the lesser quality forces of the Empire: the freebooters, Provincial units and tribute vassals. The light horse archers would be sent out ahead of the main body to do as much damage as possible and cause disorder among the enemy.

The second line consisted of the feudal spahis on either flank, with the right flank post reserved for the spahis unit from whichever half of the Empire that the battle was fought in. The Janissary corps was posted in the middle of the spahis, usually behind an earthen embankment or else posted in the space between the two battle lines. Gun batteries were linked togeather with protective chains. The third line was made up of the Household Cavalry, stationed behind the Janissaries. They were held in reserve and only used in the last extreme.

The first line was supposed to absorb the initial enemy attacks and fall behind the second Turk line. It was hoped that this action might disorder the enemy ranks as they pursued the first line of Turks. Upon withdrawing, the artillery would punch gaping holes in the ranks of the foe, disrupting their formations and leaving them vulnerable to an Ottoman counterattack.

If thes were not enough to cause the enemy to run, then they would have to assault the Janissaries, ensconsed in the second line behind earthworks. While so engaged, the feudal spahis would attempt to out-flank them. Failing that, the enemy would still have to face the elite of the Empire with the Household Cavalry thundering down upon them. The Janissaries would also attack if the opportunity was there, but they would do so in dense columns that limited their firepower.

The exact tactics employed by the Ottoman units is unkown. We do know that they fought in deep, wide formations since their vast numbers would allow nothing else. This caused their firepower to be less than it might have been using other formations. In rough country, they would employ their swarms of fight infantry types to sweep the countryside and scout out the enemy. Their light cavalry performed the same function in more open country.

More Ottoman Turk Army of the 17th to Early 19th Century

Introduction
The Standing Army
Feudal Hosts
Provincial Armies
Tribute States Armies and Freebooters
Battle Tactics