Diekplus

The Diekplus, meaning to ‘break through’, was one of the Tactics used by War Galleys in the Ancient World.

Aim:
- To snap the oars off one side of the Galley, disabling it.
Method:
- Galleys form in line astern and head straight towards an Enemy Fleet with its Galleys aligned side by side. The leading Galley pulled in its oars at the last minute and using its momentum snapped off the enemy’s oars on one side. As it passed through the Enemy line, the second Galley attacked the disabled vessel. If a neighbouring Galley turned to help, its sides became vulnerable to the next Galley in line and so on.
Counter:
- The Opposing Fleet formed into two horizontal lines, one behind the other. Or if outnumbered, it formed into a Kyklos, defensive circle.