Prelude to Poltava 1709.

DBA-HX revised with 3.0

This was a test game between the Russians of Tsar Peter and Swedes of Charles XII set prior to the Battle of Poltava. Both armies were nearly identical in composition; 8 elements of foot, 1 artillery piece and 3 mounted elements. Of the three mounted units, the Russians had one of their number a unit of dragoons (Mtd-inf). 

On the Swedish side, all musketeer units were partially armed with pike  This reduced their shooting factor slightly, but they were compensated for this in the combat phase.

Deployment

Russians deployment has the left flank anchored on the woods and the main battle line in echelon back to the low hill. Cavalry are held back in reserve with a small brigade of infantry.

The Swedes had two brigades forward with their artillery positioned between the two. The bulk of the Swedish cavalry are grouped on the right flank with the remainder held in reserve with the second line.

Opening round.

Swedish infantry on the left skirt the woods with the intent to deploy further forward. The second brigade wheel to their right to open more space for the artillery to engage the Russians. Russian opening shots bring the Swedish 2^nd brigade in disarray.

After two bounds it becomes clear to the Russians the Swedes are bringing their reserves forward earlier than expected and committing their cavalry to a wide flanking turn. The Swedish column make a rapid deployment from column to line with one battalion dispatching Russian dragoons out of the wood. While the Russian right wing are sorting themselves out, Russian guns wreak havoc on a Swedish battalion.

Swedish cavalry sweep past the woods and are ready to engage their Russian counterpart. Musketry from the Swedish 2^nd brigade put an end to the Russian cannonade while the Swedish 1^st brigade are forcing the Russian back toward the hill. Russian cavalry bested the Swedes in their fight to bring the score even 3-3.

By this time the Russian battle line was in disarray. With the cavalry engaged with the Swedes, the reserve was not committed as too much time was required to reestablish proper formations. During the confusion, the Swedish 1^st brigade handily rolled up the Russian right bring victory 4-3.

Notes:

The last stage of the DBA-HX (3.0) draft required the insertion of battalions partially armed with the pike. This would allow re-fights of the Boyne and other battles prior to the general use of the socket bayonet.

Troops so armed do use a lower factor while shooting, but are compensated with a pursuit move on an opponent’s recoil, flee or destroyed result.