First established with a distinct role in the mid- to late-17th century, grenadier units would throw grenades and storm breaches, while leading the forefront of a breakthrough. Grenadiers originated as specialized assault soldiers for siege operations. Ottoman Army used Deli as shock troops as well. Polish Winged Hussars, elite heavy cavalry used by the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, have also been described as shock troops. In late-medieval Europe, the German Landsknecht and Swiss mercenaries used large Zweihänder swords to break into pike formations. The Shorn Ones were the most prestigious warrior society in the Aztec Empire, serving as its shock troops. Several sources describe how the Vikings used berserkers as shock troops in organized warfare. The Companion cavalry of Alexander the Great are described as being the first example of shock cavalry being used in Europe.

Presently, the term is rarely used, as the strategic concepts behind it have become standard contemporary military thinking. Both types of units could fight behind enemy lines, by surprise if required, however.Īlthough the term 'shock troop' became popular in the 20th century, the concept is not a new one, such as the utilization by Western European armies of the forlorn hope. Any specialized, elite unit formed to fight an engagement via overwhelming assault (usually) would be considered shock troops, as opposed to ' special forces' or commando-style units (intended mostly for covert operations).

Military units that contain assault troops are typically organized for mobility with the intention that they will penetrate enemy defences and attack into the enemy's vulnerable rear areas. 'Shock troop' is a calque, a loose translation of the German word Stoßtrupp.

They are often better trained and equipped than other infantry, and expected to take heavy casualties even in successful operations. Shock troops or assault troops are formations created to lead an attack. German Stoßtruppen (shock troops) rising from trenches to attack, World War I

Mount and blade warband winged hussars