The Russian cavalry force was the largest in Europe, totalling over sixty regiments organised into twenty cavalry divisions. Included in this number were the many of the famed Cossacks, who served as light infantry and cavalry.

Particularly valued for their fierceness and mobility, Cossacks were regarded as excellent scouts and irregular troops, although they were considered somewhat second-rate in formal, open battle. Nevertheless, their reputation made them a fearsome prospect for any soldier to face, particularly when armed with lances.