"Egyptian light infantry uniforms, 1885" Topic

I have read that the Egyptian army had light infantry battalions uniformed in light blue. Were they still wearing them during the 1st Sudan War in 1883-85? Did any of those light infantry battalions fight against the Mahdists Ansar?
Thank you

I think your source was likely in error.

There were no "Light Infantry" battalions in either the Old or New Egyptian Army, only regular line troops.

However, the smaller number of battalions comprised of troops recruited/impressed into Egyptian service from the Sudan did wear (during the early period of British engagement against the Mahdi) a medium blue uniform.

Full details may be found in Vol. 1 of "The Mahdist Wars Sourcebook" available here: link

Yeah, a shameless plug, but I believe anyone here would make the same recommendation. No brag. Just fact.

TVAG

Were there some gendarmes in blue? Otherwise, yes, I am not aware of any light battalions in the Egyptian establishment.

The Mahdist War Source Book both volume 1 and 2 are a must have for anyone interested in this period.

I'll also join ranks with the folks who have never heard of any light infantry serving in Egypt/Sudan. I believe the Sudanese wore a dark blue tunic with white pants (at least that is how I painted my early war unit.

Also, there was one Sudanese regiment that wore a dark blue Zouave style uniform (again that's how I painted them).

I believe that there is a dark blue winter uniform for Egyptian troops.

Dark blue for winter and white for summer.