Escalade

Escalade consists of attacking soldiers advancing to the base of a wall, setting ladders, and climbing to engage the defending forces.

Though very simple and direct, it was also one of the most dangerous options available; escalade would generally be conducted in the face of arrow fire from the battlements, and the defenders would naturally attempt to push ladders away from the wall.

Attackers would generally attempt escalade if they had reasons for wanting a swift conclusion, or if they had an overwhelming superiority in numbers.

However, escalade still exists as a viable (albeit niche) combat tactic, and is occasionally used by police tactical, counterterrorist, and special forces units to raid a structure through its upper levels, either to avoid a barricaded entrance or line of sight, or to breach the structure from multiple points.

Mechanical assault ladders, typically installed on the roof of vehicles and featuring ramps that can extend or angle themselves to reach an entry point such as a window sill or balcony, are often used in this capacity.