Page "Medieval warfare" Paragraph 6

The infantry, including missile troops ( such as archers ), would typically be employed at the outset of the battle to break open infantry formations while the cavalry attempted to defeat its opposing number.

If the cavalry met foot soldiers, the pikemen would engage them.

Perhaps the most important technological advancement for medieval warfare in Europe was the invention of the stirrup.

It most likely came to Europe with the Avars in the 7th century, although it was not properly adopted by the major European powers until the 10th century.