Before engaging the Hittites in battle in 1247 B.C.E., Ramesses II received military intelligence first from the Shosu, then from captured Hittite spies. According to an ancient inscription.

Ramesses II and the Shosu speak. Ramesses asked the Shosu where their chief was. The Shosu answered, They are where the Ruler of the Hittites is, for the Hittite foe is in the land of Aleppo to the north of Tunip. He is too afraid of Pharaoh to come south since he heard that Pharaoh was coming north! Dialogue of Ramesses II and the Hittite Spies, several hours later.. Then said: His Majesty, What are you? They replied: We belong to the Ruler of the Hittites! He sent us out to see where Your Majesty was. Said His Majesty to them, Where is he, the Ruler of the Hittites? See, I...