The review distinguishes mobile comitatenses, which could accompany emperors or shift between theatres, from troops assigned to particular cities and provinces. Service near the emperor could bring rewards, while static postings offered opportunities to build local economic ties. Sixth-century administration complicated the division: regional field forces increasingly operated within a commander's assigned theatre, units might fight alongside frontier troops, and transfers did not always bring a clear new title. The force structure balanced mobility and local presence alongside differences in pay, horses, and supply.
Notable Point · 9:30-10:58
Mobile armies and frontier troops as complementary forces
The distinction between mobile comitatenses and locally based frontier troops persisted, even when units and their privileges changed.