Libyan Spearmen can be relied upon as light defensive infantry more than to perform another more crucial role, but can hold a battle line for a while when required.

Sapping Ability

Due to the practical unwillingness of its citizen body to fight, the Carthaginians have trained and equipped these Libyan peasants to fight as reliable heavy infantry. In the early part of the third century, they were re-equipped to fight in the same manner as Greek Thureophoroi. They are armored with good linen body armor, Thracian style helmets, and bronze greaves. They have sturdy spears and good javelins, but lack the élan and professionalism of the Greek Thureophoroi. However, battle tested Libyans can prove themselves against the deadliest of foes. For all this, they are not a good match for heavier infantry or good heavy cavalry. They can be relied upon as good heavy infantry, able to skirmish and fight with their spears to good effect.

Historically, Libyan spearmen were recruited by the Carthaginians in large numbers. They came from both client kingdoms under the proverbial Carthaginian thumb and the Libyan peasantry that worked Carthage’s fields. They were not particularly prone to rebellion and civil strife, but there are notable exceptions (after the first Punic War, for example). Carthage relied upon these men quite extensively, and they usually formed the backbone of the infantry when Carthage conducted campaigns in Africa. Scutarii were generally prefered in their place, however, due to the fact that the Iberian soldiers were often far better.