What is a Tactical Formation?

Introduction

A tactical formation (or order) is the arrangement or deployment of moving military forces such as infantry, cavalry, armoured vehicles, military aircraft, or naval vessels. Formations were found in tribal societies such as the pua rere of the Māori, and ancient or medieval formations which include shield walls (skjaldborg in Old Norse), phalanxes (lines of battle in close order), testudo formation and skirmishers.

Refer to Military Tactics.

Tactical formations include:

Formation flying
Box
Coil: Similar to the Herringbone formation, the coil formation allows for 360 degree security while at the halt. This type of formation is also used when refuelling aircraft as well as during resupply. Sometimes platoon leaders also use it when briefing to platoon sergeants. Air guards and dismounted fire teams are also in position while this formation is being used.
Close Order
Column
Echelon
Herringbone
Line
Mixed Order
Skirmish
Square
Pike Square
Staggered column
V formation
Vanguard
Wedge and inverted wedge
Armoured Spearhead
Svinfylking
File: The file formation is used in elements of up to a platoon size. A file formation is used for close terrain, often in dense vegetation or when there is low visibility. The file formation is easiest to control, and provides fire to the ranks should an ambush from the side occur.
Diamond: Similar to the Wedge and inverted wedge, the diamond formation allows for the fourth section to follow the lead element. The advantages to this formation include having the ability to control elements even in a tight terrain, and allows for quick manoeuvrability to assign squads as the assaulting element, and assign certain squads to support-by-fire.
Night attack formation

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