Page "Mongol military tactics and organization" Paragraph 61

The tumens would typically advance on a broad front, five lines deep.

The first three lines would be composed of horse archers, the last two of lancers.

Once an enemy force was located, the Mongols would try to avoid risky or reckless frontal assaults ( in sharp contrast to their European and Middle-Eastern opponents ).

Instead they would use diversionary attacks to fix the enemy in place, while their main forces sought to outflank or surround the foe.

First the horse archers would lay down a withering barrage of arrow fire.

Additional arrows were carried by camels who followed close by, ensuring a plentiful supply of ammunition.