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A diamond formation is a formation of four or more aircraft, soldiers on horseback, players in a team sport, etc., wherein the elements of the group adopt a diamond, or kite, shape.
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Aircraft
As few as four aircraft can establish the formation and conventionally the largest number is sixteen, in "tight formation": 1, 2, 3, 4, 3, 2, 1. Rarely attempted on jet aircraft, this feat was first achieved by the Pakistan Air Force flying U.S.-made F-86 Sabres in February 1958. It is considered a difficult formation as the aircraft have to fly very close to each other to create the desired effect. The larger the number of aircraft involved, the higher the risk (as compared to other formations).
Military
Diamond formations have been used in warfare, particularly by cavalry, throughout known history.
Football
A formation in association football where the four midfield players are positioned in the shape of a diamond.
Ice Hockey
A defensive formation used during a penalty kill.