Hu Tao: Military Equipment

King Wu asked Tai Gong: "When a ruler raises an army for war, the types and quantities of military equipment, offensive and defensive instruments—are there established standards for these?" Tai Gong replied: "Your question touches upon a matter of great importance! The categories and numbers of such instruments differ according to their purpose, and these distinctions determine the army’s strength and effectiveness." King Wu said: "I wish to hear the details." Tai Gong answered: "In military operations, there are general standards for equipment. For an army of ten thousand armored warriors, the required instruments include: Thirty-six Wu Chong Da Fu Xu chariots, guarded on both sides by skilled warriors wielding crossbows, spears, and halberds. Each chariot is pushed by twenty-four men. Its wheels stand eight chi high, with flags and drums mounted atop. These ‘Thunder Chariots’ can shatter enemy formations and crush strong foes. Seventy-two Wu Yi Da Lu chariots, protected by warriors with crossbows, spears, and halberds. Their five-chi-high wheels are equipped with......