Why Indian Army’s Snipers Prove Essential for Modern Tactical Operations

Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka: Sniper rifles stand out as indispensable assets in Indian Army’s arsenal, offering unparalleled accuracy and extended range crucial for modern warfare. These precision weapons are central to various military operations, providing essential capabilities such as intelligence gathering, high-value target elimination, and cover fire. Their unique ability to neutralize threats from concealed positions makes them a cornerstone of the Indian Army’s operational effectiveness. 

In any military engagement, gaining a tactical edge is of utmost importance. Sniper rifles deliver this advantage by enabling long-range engagements that surpass the reach of standard infantry weapons. The role of snipers extends beyond mere target elimination; they are pivotal in surveillance, reconnaissance, and counterterrorism operations, offering critical support to ground troops.  

A Strategic Advantage in Modern Warfare 

As Major Utkarsh Pandey of the Indian Army elaborated during Exercise Mitra Shakti, “The sniper is a potent weapon in modern warfare. Our exercise highlighted how snipers, along with their rifles, form a weapon system where the sniper is an integral part of the equation.”

The Indian Army’s sniper inventory includes the 8.68 mm Sako sniper rifles from Finland and the 7.62 mm Dragunov sniper rifles from Russia. These rifles are known for their precision and reliability, essential for high-stakes operations. Sri Lanka, participating in the same exercise, employs the 7.62 mm Accuracy International Arctic Warfare Rifle (AIAW) from the UK.  

During the final exercise of Fighting in the Built-up Area, both Indian and Sri Lankan contingents demonstrated the strategic application of sniper rifles by occupying dominating heights, establishing a sniper grid, and clearing pathways for advancing forces. 

The Role of Sniper Rifles in Contemporary Conflicts 

Sniper rifles are not merely firearms; they are force multipliers that play a decisive role in contemporary combat scenarios. Their precision enables engagement of targets from long distances with minimal risk to friendly forces. Additionally, the accuracy of sniper rifles ensures that each shot is effective, contributing significantly to mission success. The ability of snipers to operate from concealed positions amplifies their role as formidable assets in disrupting enemy operations and creating psychological impact.

In modern warfare, sniper rifles enhance the effectiveness of military operations through their unique capabilities. Snipers are vital for gathering intelligence, providing cover fire, and neutralizing key threats. Their presence on the battlefield can create panic among enemy ranks, clearing the way for further operations. Operating in teams, snipers employ stealth and precision to disrupt enemy plans and maintain strategic superiority.