"Chariots: Leader and Wingman?" Topic

Writing in Slingshot 309, Ian Russell Lowell notes that the sources often speak of chariots being allocated in pairs, and notes…

Although limited to the two-dimensional space of the battlefield as opposed to the three-dimensional space of aircraft, it is possible to perceive chariots working in tandem as a wing-leader and a wing-man.

Do you think it likely that chariots operated in pairs, similar to a wing-leader and wing-man?

I am sure every army that used chariots across the "Ancients" spectrum did their own thing based on a number of variables. It makes sense that chariots would operate in support of each other. It also makes sense that they would not.

I think the most logical way for them to work is lines. Like ship of the lines. That way they could follow the commanders wishes and not crash into each other.

So, where is his evidence? I agree that chariots must have operated in some form of formations, i.e. 'squadrons'. Pairs? Possible. However, I believe it more likely that chariots operated in larger groups of 5 or more. Why? Because even 'tribes' like the Kashka could field up to 80 chariots, each armed with a bowman. The scanty evidence at Pylos mentions chariots in groups of 5, and the light chariots of various Middle Eastern kingdoms operated in groups of between 2-5.

Frankly, it doesn't make any sense for a chariot to not have a companion on the left and the right. After all, archers can only shoot so fast, therefore, the necessity of protecting a chariots flank and/or rear with a companion chariot(s) becomes obvious. A lone chariot would be prone to attack from the rear, sides, or front – just injure one horse and the chariot is vulnerable. However, operating in groups of 5 or more provides strength, flexibility, and protection.

As to Mr. Lowell's assertions – well, duh, that's stating the obvious. They would have had to operate in some sort of 'unit'.

Groups fits with my imagination. However…just a small thought…when Assyrians started cavalry they operated in pairs. We're they reflecting earlier chariot tactics.