Diekplous

Diekplous is a term of Greek origin that refers to a naval tactic. Literally translated, it means "a running down" or "a ramming." The diekplous was a maneuver employed by ancient Greek warships, particularly during the Hellenistic period, that involved sailing through the enemy's line of battle. The primary objective was to break through the enemy formation, disrupting their ranks and often causing chaos.

This tactic was not simply about collision. A successful diekplous required skilled seamanship and well-trained crews. The attacking ship would aim to pass between two enemy vessels or through a gap in their formation at speed. As it passed, it would use its ram (rostrum) to damage or sink the enemy ship(s) it encountered, or it would maneuver to present its broadside, allowing its rowers and marines to attack the exposed flanks of the enemy vessels. The effectiveness of the diekplous depended on speed, agility, and the ability to anticipate the movements of the opposing fleet. It was a risky maneuver, as a miscalculation could lead to the attacking ship becoming entangled with the enemy or suffering damage itself. While often associated with ramming, the diekplous could also be used to outmaneuver and attack enemy ships from their vulnerable sides.