Akıncı Corps

The Akıncı Corps was an elite military unit of the Ottoman Empire during the late 14th to 15th centuries. Known for their speed and mobility, these troops were primarily light cavalry tasked with reconnaissance, raiding enemy territories, and scouting. Their name, "Akıncı," translates to "raider" in Turkish, reflecting their role in conducting fast-paced, surprise attacks against rivals. The Akıncı played a crucial role in the early conquests of the Ottomans, helping to expand the empire into Southeast Europe by disrupting and destabilizing local defenses before the main army engaged.