The composition of a column is regulated by the topography of the area of operations, but the following example will show how the allotment of troops may be determined.
As basis for calculation a mixed brigade[1] organised for independent action may be taken. To these troops may be added a squadron of Silladar cavalry, if the country is suitable to its action, and a mountain battery, which, together with the infantry, form a handy force of the three arms.
But the column is still weak in infantry, on which the brunt of the fighting will necessarily fall, and possesses no technical troops for road-making, etc.
Both requirements may be fulfilled by the addition of a pioneer battalion, or, since some hold that sappers and miners are more economical than pioneers, a battalion, of British infantry, or of Gurkhas, and a company of sappers and miners may be included.
It now only remains to give the troops an ammunition column, the necessary staff, certain additional medical, and administrative details, and the force—one infantry brigade organised for independent action, one squadron, one mountain battery, one British battalion, one company sappers and miners, etc.—will be complete, and adequate for its purpose.
FOOTNOTES:
[1] 1 British infantry battalion; 3 Native infantry battalions; ½ British field hospital; 1½ Native field hospitals; 1 Field post office; Brigade supply column.
MARCHES AND PROTECTION.
A body of troops moving in an enemy's country is liable to be attacked at any time, and from any direction, and must, therefore, always take measures for the protection of its front, flanks, and rear.