Where does echelon come from?

I'm curious to know the origin and etymology of the term "echelon." Could you elaborate on its historical context and potential influences that might have shaped its current usage? It seems to be a term often associated with hierarchical or structured systems, yet its exact provenance remains a mystery to me. Is it derived from a specific language or culture? And if so, what are some of the key factors that have contributed to its widespread adoption and application across various industries and fields? I'm eager to learn more about this intriguing word and its fascinating history.