X-Ray Attack is when a piece exerts pressure along the same file, rank, or diagonal against a target behind another piece, so that if the front piece is removed or moves away, the target behind it comes under attack.

Which Pieces Is It Seen With?

• Rooks and queens often use this motif on open lines.
• Bishops can create x-ray pressure on long diagonals.
• Sometimes the king or queen behind a defending piece becomes the target.

Tactical Consequences

X-ray pressure becomes very dangerous when combined with ideas such as a pin, discovered attack, and winning the exchange.