This Page: Unit Introduction  Light Horse Squadron Detailed TO&E   Regimental Organization

In the early years of the 20th Century Australia and New Zealand were involved in what was misnamed "The Great War". During this relatively short four year war, Mounted Infantry units, known as Light Horse Regiments, gained great respect and honour through the performance of the soldiers and their commanders, notably at such engagements as Beersheba and Romani. In the 22nd century one of the lessons relearned fighting against the Indonesian Commonwealth was the value of the Mounted Infantryman’s capabilities. As a consequence, a number of Light Horse Regiments (units at Battalion Strength) were reformed with the dual roles of Reconnaissance and Strike. A JR/A Grav Scooter, used by many cattle stockman in Northern Australia and New Zealand, was modified to meet Oceanic Union Defence Forces operating requirements and introduced into service as the standard Light Horse vehicle under the name the Waler (after the original Regiment’s breed of horse).

Generally, the Light Horse Regiments are included within each Defence Region’s Divisional organisation as Divisional troops, and Brigaded for administrative control. 1st Division has 1st Light Horse Brigade consisting of 1st, 2nd and 3rd Light Horse and so on. The speed, manoeuvrability (and silence of the grav drive) of the Waler make it ideal for employment as a light recon vehicle and the powerful HEL/1 laser provides enough firepower to employ it as a formidable strike vehicle against even medium armour. However, cost and weight restrictions have resulted in fitting of only the most basic of fire control and sensor systems. This is considered to be more than made up for by the consummate skill and daring of the riders who delight in showing off the shooting skills by "nailing" feral cats with headshots on the open outback expanses!

Special Note: For further information on relevant equipment, see our article on OUDF Weapons and Vehicles

Total Strength: 6 Officers, 135 Other Ranks (141 total troops).

At Regimental level the Light Horse are much leaner than other OUDF units in having very limited support assets and a light Headquarters element. The Regimental Headquarters Troop consists of a HQ Tac (four men), HQ Main (10 men), an Air Defence Section containing four Harlequin Light Air Defence launchers and a Security Section of eight troopers. There are four Line Squadrons and a Tech Support Squadron. Any further support is provided from Division as operations require but will usually include an SP Medium Artillery Battery (Grav) and an Air Defence Troop Heavy (Grav).