A charge is a tactical move in battle where one force of soldiers rapidly advances on an enemy with the intent of coming to grips in close combat. It is a direct, forward movement intended to close the distance so that ranged weapons become less decisive and hand‑to‑hand or short‑range fighting determines the outcome.

Mechanics

The essential contest in a charge is between the attackers' closing speed and the defenders' ability to inflict casualties before contact. If attackers can reach the defenders faster than defensive fire or other obstacles can stop them, they may break the defenders' formation or morale. Key variables that affect this balance include weapon ranges and lethality, unit density, availability of cover, terrain slope and obstacles, the element of surprise, and the training and discipline of the troops.

Risks and effects

A successful charge can shatter defensive lines, seize ground, and create opportunities for follow‑on action. If it fails, however, the charging force frequently becomes disordered and exposed, which makes it vulnerable to a counter‑attack or enfilading fire. High casualty rates among attackers are a common consequence when defenders are well prepared or supported by effective long‑range fire.

Historical and modern context

Throughout history, charging has taken many forms: massed infantry advances, cavalry shock charges, and specialist assault formations have all used the principle of rapid, direct closure. The rise of accurate and rapid‑fire weapons, artillery, and later mechanized forces changed the calculus of frontal charges, making large‑scale massed assaults far more costly in many contexts. In contemporary warfare, commanders more often rely on combined‑arms tactics, maneuver, fire support, and precision engagement, but local charges—such as short rushes by small units to close with an enemy—still occur when terrain, surprise, or necessity make them the best option.

Decision factors

  • Commanders weigh the likely rate of casualties against the expected gain in position or disruption of the enemy.
  • Morale, leadership, and timing can be decisive: a determined, well‑timed charge may succeed where a poorly led one fails.
  • Modern doctrine tends to limit frontal charges against prepared positions unless supported by sufficient suppressive fire, armor, or other enabling effects.