British mounted formations on the Gallipoli peninsula in 1915

Abstract

The fighting on the Gallipoli peninsula in 1915 was primarily a clash of masses of infantry. The limited area controlled by the allies and difficult terrain basically prevented the effective use of cavalry. Nevertheless, after a few weeks, the first cavalry units landed on the peninsula. Over the following months, their number systematically grew. At its peak, the composition of the British forces included as many as 15 horse brigades. Armament, equipment, and above all, the principles of training allowed it to fight in the same way as infantry. It was used to man field fortifications at the front or to strengthen the most weakened infantry divisions. Sending horse formations to the peninsula was irrational. Using such formations as infantry deprived them of their main advantage, which was mobility. What's more, positional fighting caused significant losses, even in a situation of relative calm on the front. In addition, problems with provisions and hygiene caused increasing non-combat losses. In the fall, these problems only increased. The Mediterranean Expeditionary Force Command was aware of these problems. It even attempted to obtain additional infantry units from Egypt to replace the cavalry on the peninsula. Unfortunately, personal animosities, competition and lack of strategic thinking meant that these intentions were not implemented.