The warrior nobility were the leading group. Like other peoples during the Iron Age, the Iberians developed military techniques and equipment, and used various weapons. During the 3rd century BC, the use of weapons of a Celtic type, consisting of long swords and helmets made of iron or bronze, was common amongst the coastal peoples. Inland peoples used curved swords called falcatas. The bulk of the army consisted of infantrymen. Horses, which were small, were used for reconnoitring or pursuing the enemy. Iberian warriors were hired as mercenaries during the Punic Wars.