The
Byzantine army or
Eastern Roman army was the primary military body of the
Byzantine armed forces, serving alongside the
Byzantine navy. A direct descendant of the
Roman army, the Byzantine army maintained a similar level of discipline, strategic prowess and organization. It was among the most effective armies of western Eurasia for much of the Middle Ages. Over time the
cavalry arm became more prominent in the Byzantine army as the
legion system disappeared in the early 7th century. Later reforms reflected some
Germanic and
Asian influences – rival forces frequently became sources of mercenary units e.g.;
Huns,
Cumans,
Alans and (following the
Battle of Manzikert)
Turks meeting the Empire's demand for
light cavalry mercenaries. Since much of the Byzantine military focused on the strategy and skill of generals utilizing
militia troops,
heavy infantry were recruited from
Frankish and later
Varangian mercenaries.