The Danish colonial dependencies in Tranquebar and along the East coast of India was protected by a small force of mercenary soldiers of European and Indian origin. In 1791 Tranquebar, the main garrison of the Danish forces, had a garrison of two Regiments (which had "company" strength).

The 1st Regiment consisted of 140 European infantry, the 2nd Regiment performed artillery duties with its 40 European and 40 Indian gunners. About 200 additional soldiers, organized in 2 "Cipajen" (sepoy) companies, were recruited among the Indian natives.

Fig. 1 (left)
Musketeer, 1st (European) Regiment (of Infantry), 1791

Fig. 2 (right)
Gunner, 2nd Regiment (of Artillery), 1791

Drawings by Jan Schlürmann