The ancient military formation developed by the Greeks is known as the phalanx. This formation consisted of a dense grouping of heavily armed infantry soldiers, known as hoplites, who would align themselves in rows, wielding long spears and shields. The primary strategy behind the phalanx was to create a solid wall of shields that provided defense and a unified front during battles. This tactical formation allowed the Greeks to maintain strong defensive positions and launch effective offensives, contributing to their military successes during the classical period, particularly evident in battles such as those fought during the Peloponnesian War.