A flying column is a small, independent, military land unit capable of rapid mobility and usually composed of all arms. It is often an ad hoc unit, formed during the course of operations.[1]
The term is usually, though not necessarily, applied to forces less than the strength of a brigade.[1] As mobility is its primary purpose, a flying column is accompanied by the minimum of equipment. It generally uses suitable fast transport; historically, horses were used, with trucks and helicopters replacing them in modern times.
- ^ a b Chisholm 1911, p. 585.