A military siege is a tactic used in warfare where an army surrounds a fortified location, such as a city or castle, to cut off supplies and reinforcements. The goal is to weaken the defenders and force them to surrender without direct assault. Sieges can last for weeks or even months, depending on the strength of the defenses and the resources of the besieging force. During a siege, various methods may be employed, including bombardment with artillery, mining to undermine walls, or blockades to prevent food and supplies from entering. Historical examples of sieges include the Siege of Troy and the Siege of Vicksburg, which illustrate the strategic importance of this military tactic.