@Genieljay 3 July 2021 more from that month

The Hypaspists, also known as the 'Shield Bearers', were probably Alexander the Great's best all-around special force. Their military role was debatable because of the discrepancy with historical records. And thus, a subject of much dispute among historians. In some sources, they were lumped with the heavy pikemen of Macedonian phalanx; in others, they were treated as medium infantrymen (more akin to hoplites) who played a crucial role in defending the phalanx' vulnerable flanks. Some historians had also claimed that they fought more like the javelin-throwing Peltasts. On a personal note, I believe the Hypaspists can switch roles whenever the need arises, which might help explain the discrepancy. Their competency in using a wide range of weapons was perhaps the reason Alexander the Great tend to deploy them when fighting an uncharacteristic, non-pitched battle, such as the guerilla campaigns waged by the Uxians, Sogdians, and Bactrians, as well as when besieging a fortified encampment, where discipline, flexibility, and speed are vital assets in scoring victories. It can be assumed they are nimble enough to facilitate fast movement. Typical armament probably consisted of the Linothorax armor to provide some bodily protection without restricting limb movement, a Phrygian helmet to protect the head from a blow without restricting line of sight, a dory spear which works best against cavalry, and xiphos or kopis sword for effective close-encounter combat against fellow infantry. They are typically supported by missile fires from archers and slingers when assaulting enemy positions and can drive away enemy soldiers even when fighting an uphill battle. They were also probably the first ones to be sent when scaling the walls of enemy bases. Against flanking movements, they can quickly re-deploy to meet the threat and hold on until they were relieved by a reserved force. Because of their speed, they can also perform flanking movements in lieu of cavalry (or in tandem with them or other units). The Argyraspides, which were famed throughout the Hellenic world for their legendary fighting prowess despite many of them being in their sixties or seventies, had probably originated from this unit.