US Special Operations Forces Seek New Extreme Long-Range Sniper Rifle

The Importance of Snipers in Special Operations

Snipers are highly valuable force multipliers within small special operations teams. Army Rangers, Navy SEALs, Marine Raiders, and Green Berets rely on snipers to maximize the firepower of their small groups. In high-intensity warfare, such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the impact of snipers on the battlefield has become increasingly evident. Enemy snipers are feared by soldiers due to the combination of the unknown and the actual danger they pose.

A New Sniper Rifle for US Special Operations Forces

In December, US Special Operations Command (SOCOM) released a solicitation for a new sniper rifle, known as the Extreme Long Range-Sniper Rifle (ELR-SR) program. This program aims to replace the M107 Barret and MK15 sniper rifles with a modular, magazine-fed, multi-caliber capable system. SOCOM has specified certain requirements for the new rifle to enhance its performance and versatility.

Key Requirements for the New Sniper Rifle

The new sniper rifle should allow the operator to easily swap barrels within 5 minutes. It should also be significantly lighter than the current rifles, with a maximum weight of 22 lbs. Additionally, the rifle should have a similar range to older sniper rifles, capable of hitting targets up to 2,500 meters (1.5 miles) away. SOCOM also emphasizes the importance of durability, with a required barrel life of between 1,200 and 1,500 rounds.

In terms of ammunition, the new rifle should be able to fire the .300 Norma Magnum bullet, which has been approved by the Department of Defense. It should also support both subsonic and supersonic rounds. Furthermore, SOCOM specifies that the rifle should be compatible with a sound suppressor no longer than 8.5 inches, with recoil-reducing attributes. The goal is to minimize recoil to enhance shooter accuracy.

The Role of Sniper Rifles in Special Operations

The MK15 and M107 sniper rifles, favorites among US special operations forces, have been used to engage fortified targets, lightly armed vehicles, and enemy troops in both short- and long-range engagements. These heavy sniper rifles have proven their effectiveness with devastating effects on the battlefield. The new sniper rifle aims to maintain and improve upon this level of performance.

Sniper Operations in Ukraine

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has showcased the significant role of sniper operations in high-intensity combat. Ukrainian commandos, such as Vyacheslav Kovalskiy, have achieved impressive long-range kills, with one sniper claiming a shot at a Russian soldier from a staggering distance of 3,800 meters (almost 2.4 miles). Such accomplishments boost the morale of friendly forces and add psychological pressure to enemy combatants.

Sniper operations have a noticeable impact on the outcome of battles, especially in trench and urban warfare scenarios. The US military and special operations community closely monitor the fighting in Ukraine, drawing valuable lessons on warfare and technology. By seeking a new sniper rifle, SOCOM aims to ensure that the US remains prepared and maintains an overmatch against potential adversaries, including China and Russia.

—————————————————————————————————————————————
By: insider@insider.com (Stavros Atlamazoglou)
Title: US Special Operations Forces Seek New Extreme Long-Range Sniper Rifle
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/socom-searching-new-rifle-snipers-deal-damage-in-modern-combat-2024-1
Published Date: Sun, 28 Jan 2024 15:00:02 +0000