How did the Macedonian phalanx fight in Alexander the Great’s army?

In the army of Alexander the Great, the Macedonian phalanx was a highly disciplined infantry formation designed for frontal strength. Its primary weapon was the sarissa, a formidable pike ranging from 13 to 21 feet in length, which provided a significant reach advantage over opponents.12

The formation typically consisted of units 16 men deep, known as syntagmas. In battle, the soldiers stood shoulder to shoulder, with the first five ranks holding their sarissas horizontally to create a dense wall of spear points. The remaining ranks held their pikes vertically, creating a protective canopy that towered over the formation.13

While the phalanx was virtually impregnable to frontal attacks, it lacked maneuverability and relied on cavalry and light infantry—such as archers and javelin men—to protect its flanks and exploit weaknesses in the enemy line. This combination of specialized equipment and tactical support allowed Alexander to effectively utilize the phalanx to conquer his vast empire.132