The Battle of Ad Decimum, fought near Carthage, was a crucial engagement during the Byzantine campaign against the Vandal Kingdom in North Africa. Under the command of the renowned general Belisarius, the Byzantine forces faced off against the army of King Gelimer, who had successfully seized control of North Africa earlier in the 5th century. Emperor Justinian I, intent on restoring Roman territories, dispatched Belisarius to undertake the task of reconquering these lands.

On the eve of battle, the Byzantine forces numbered around 10,000 men, while Gelimer commanded a much larger contingent. However, Belisarius employed highly effective tactics, utilizing his cavalry and infantry to exploit the weaknesses in the Vandal ranks. The battle commenced with a fierce engagement, and despite initial resistance, the well-coordinated Byzantine attack led to a collapse of the Vandal formation. Gelimer, realizing defeat was imminent, retreated, leaving his forces to succumb to the disciplined advance of Belisarius’s troops.

This victory not only showcased Belisarius's military genius but also bolstered morale for the Byzantine Empire’s reconquest efforts. After the battle, Belisarius secured the surrounding region, facilitating a stronger Byzantine foothold in North Africa. In the following months, the remnants of the Vandal forces would be decisively dealt with, culminating in the complete annexation of the Vandal Kingdom into the Byzantine Empire. The Battle of Ad Decimum marked the beginning of a significant territorial expansion under Justinian’s rule, laying the groundwork for future Byzantine military campaigns.