Thorakites

The Thorakitai (sing. Thorakites ) were an ancient branch of service of the Diadochi. They were the development of Thureophoroi, but were also used at the same time with them.

Equipment

Thorakitai were similarly equipped as Thureophoroi, with a " Theuros " sign, several javelins, a Xyston and a sword. However, they were even better protected, Thorakitai wore chain mail and lamellar armor, this came greaves on both legs, leather bracers and a helmet.

Use

The Thorakitai were used to support the lighter Thureophoroi, Psiloi, Akonstitai, Sphendonetai and Toxotai. The Thorakitai were relatively well equipped and still mobile. They are sometimes referred to as imitation legionaries as they fought similar to this: first the enemy's formation is disrupted with javelins, followed by the attack.

Thorakitai were used by the Kingdom of Epirus, by the Seleucids and Bactria. Thorakitai Argyraspidai it was only when the Seleucids, even if the Parthians copied this troop type for a short time in small numbers.

Polybius describes the Thorakitai. There are tombs reliefs in Sidon showing Thorakitai.