Siege of Schweidnitz (1762)

The Siege of Schweidnitz (1762) was a military operation conducted by Prussian forces under the command of King Frederick the Great against the Austrian-held fortress of Schweidnitz (present-day Świdnica, Poland) during the Third Silesian War (part of the larger Seven Years' War). The siege lasted from August 7 to October 9, 1762, and resulted in a Prussian victory.

Schweidnitz, a strategically important fortress in Silesia, had been previously captured and lost by the Prussians during the earlier Silesian Wars. Its recapture was a primary objective for Frederick the Great in 1762 as it secured his control over the region and provided a valuable base of operations.

The Austrian garrison, commanded by General Guasco, put up a determined defense. The Prussian army employed a methodical siege, using trenches and artillery bombardment to weaken the fortress's defenses. Frederick personally oversaw the operation, demonstrating his continued commitment to the war in Silesia.

After weeks of intense bombardment and mining operations, the defenses of Schweidnitz were significantly damaged, and the Austrian garrison was forced to surrender on October 9, 1762. The Prussian victory at Schweidnitz, along with the simultaneous victory at the Battle of Burkersdorf, significantly weakened the Austrian position in Silesia and paved the way for peace negotiations. The siege is considered a significant example of Frederick the Great's military skill and strategic acumen.