Snipers Effect on the Battlefield - Research Paper Example

 Snipers Effect On The Battlefield Introduction Military snipers are primarily used in a variety of missions in the battlefield; however, it does not necessarily mean that their primary role is firing a shot. The primary battlefield duty of the sniper is surveillance. Because snipers have secrecy, they are ideally suited to sneak to investigate the enemy and to provide information to the commander regarding the enemy's, strength, location, and size. Due to increased conflicts in today’s world, there are many battles that occur in urban areas. In an urban setup, it is very challenging to identify the direction from which the attack will originate. A sniper who protects himself at any point of a house will be a problem for the whole unit. Snipers in a battlefield cause unease for the commanders, as well as the leaders. Due to the high level of uncertainty, the confidence of the leaders and commanders is adversely affected when their soldiers are killed. Consequently, in a battlefield high levels of casualties are possible. The use of snipers is the leading tactic that is used by the low-power units on high-power units. Snipers are mostly used in asymmetric welfare and result in a large numbers of casualties. Thus, in asymmetric battles, the sharpshooting techniques, weapons, equipment and training should be evaluated. The paper will discuss the evolution of snipers and their effect in today’s battlefield. The scope of this paper will be the history and development of snipers and their effectiveness in the modern day battlefield. Definition of a sniper The word sniper is derived from the snipe, and a small, fast-The snipe is a small, fast-flying game bird found in Scotland and England. It is commonly known for its agile, twisting flight. In most cases, it is very difficult to shoot. A person who can bring down a snipe using a flintlock gun is considered an accomplished shot. In the 19th century, the term snipping was established to mean an above average shot. There is varied definition of the term sniper. A sniper is a selected military person, who is selected from the unit force, with a mission to observe the area of operations, gather the required information and intelligence, and striking undetected the principle objectives of the enemy force (Cruceru, 2012). According to Broekhuizen (2008) a sniper is an individual who is highly trained in the field craft and marksmanship to deliver long-range, precise fire to selected targets from concealed positions. Barışık & Baltacıoğlu (2014) defines a sniper as a chosen soldier who is trained in marksman and observing, a person who can locate the; though well concealed, and can stalk in wait without been noticed and kill with one shot. A sniper is also defined as the shooter who performs the act of shooting in hidden places or from a long distance that exceed the capacity of a typical soldier (Donaldson, 2011). The above definitions of a sniper show the concepts of accurate shooting from a long distance and in hidden position. Therefore, a sniper is military personnel having unique and advanced technology weapons, materials, and equipment. Also, he can shoot from a fixed and hidden position to an extended distance; can subdue the enemy force in one shot and move independent from his unit. History and development The development of the first firearm led to the beginning of sharp shooting. From the early years until the 19th century, most firearms could only aim 80 yards effectively. These firearms were designed for speed of loading and firing rather than the speed. Those soldiers that could capture the art of employing accurate fire with these rifles were described a marksman. A marksman is a military person who can consistently attain a high standard of shooting and who is trained to cause casualties on targets using standard individual weapons (Plaster & John, 2007). After the industrial revolution, the gunsmiths had new and efficient machines that would give them the ability to produce more accurate and long ranging firearms. This increase the engagement range and confidence to effectively strike the targets. These marksmen were first used when the British Army conflict with the Colonial forces in the American War of Independence (1775- 1783). The Americans used highly trained marksman to the borders of the highly visible and large numbers of British Forces, causing destruction and causing high levels of casualties. The first use of marksman by the British Army was during the formation Modern Royal Green Jackets and the Kings Rifle Corps in the Peninsular War against France from 1808-1814 (Plaster & John, 2007). The soldiers dressed in dark green uniforms, and employed machined Baker rifles to engage French troops perfectly before they were in range with other army wearing the traditional uniforms. The uniforms were adapted to aid in the concealment, and little group for engagement. The employment of these small groups, referred as skirmishes, could be considered as the early work of snipers and sniping. However, the World War I was the breakthrough for sharp shooting history and publicized that the most effecient gun was a sniper. Counter-sniper units were established by the armies in order to fight the sniper units that had been by other armies in the preceding wars. This led to the establishment of companies known as the counter snipers. During the World War I, the snipers had a significant contribution in the battle. Their target skills allowed them to be used as a way of gathering intelligence information. The snipers would report information about the enemy activities, and the terrain conditions utilized by their commanders’ decision-making process. During the World War 1, the army also developed the idea of organizing the snipers in teams of two, rather than one, to improve their surveillance skills and increase accuracy of hitting the target. One of the team members focused on shooting, while the executed effective supervision (Donaldson, 2011). A sniper pair could work for longer periods and engage more accurately to longer distances because he can observe the direction of the shots. In this period, the Germans snipers introduced multi-purpose ammunition that was used in limited quantities against steel loopholes, giving them a significant technical advantage. In World War II, snipers were more frequent and used new concepts. Among the new concepts of innovation was the use of the female snipers (Barışık & Baltacıoğlu, 2014). The snipers had played a significant role, particularly in urban battlefield, where the most important factors in the battle are snipers and counter-snipers. The concept of the modern battlefield There are numerous differences in the battlefield of today that were not experienced by the soldiers of the previous wars. Additionally, new war concepts from the past conflicts have become standard doctrines with the modern armies. The idea of fast moving, as well as flexible front has led to the introduction of better communications to sustain the required logistic support. However, the change does not correspond with the abandonment of methods that have been valuable in the battlefield. Many countries involved in various conflicts have recognized the need of marksmanship. Even with the advanced technology, these skills are still considered to be crucial. Not matter how the situation is in the battlefield; the troop must seize the ground. Someone must physically enquire about the enemy to declare the territory secure, thus a sniper is very imperative (Donaldson, 2011). Snipers are professional military personnel with special skills to deny the enemy access, kill the enemy soldiers, and gather critical intelligence information. The valid targets include officers, communication specialists, gunners of weapons, and so on. This military personnel often require additional training, therefore, are hard for the enemy to overtake. Additionally, the equipment that a sniper has disabled is very expensive and delicate, making it very difficult for the enemy to replace or repair. Due to the increasing awareness of political sensitivity, there are law enforcement and military agencies that refer this role as counter spinning. Spinning will continue to be a valuable asset for military leaders and commanders. Marksmanship is important in the modern battlefield as it was in the past centuries. Hitting the target will solve the problem, and disabling the enemy army and the control structure so that they are unable to prosecute the war. Research problem The United States snipers have been highly valued asset since the beginning of civil war. However, the public have been ambivalent due to the nature of the battle the snipers engaged in. Snipers have a successful history, but a question that has yet gone unanswered is the effect of this program on the public imagination. In other words, how has the role of the sniper changed over time in American? There are various perceptions driven by masculine honors, principles of self-defense and morals. Currently, terrorist attacks have been on the rise. For this reason, many future military operations are expected to occur in urban environments. These complex battlefields are extremely demanding and introduce many challenges to the dismounted warfighter (Robert, 2009). These include limited visibility, lack of familiarity with the environment, sniper threats, concealment of enemy forces, ineffective communications, and a general problem of locating and identifying enemy and friendly forces. Better situational awareness is required for effective operation in the urban environment. For the snipers to be effective in a modern-day battlefield they must have the drives which consist of planning, training and qualification. There is limited research on the impact of the sniper program on modern battlefield. Following, we will look at the importance of momentum, the impacts and how technological developments are very paramount for the success of the modern battlefield. Research design This exploratory study is designed as the first step towards establishing the effects of snipers in the battlefield with the hypothesis that the determining factor of a successful battlefield operation is the adaptation of snipers. The roles of a sniper will determine the force that can be implemented into a commanders plan in order to achieve a desired effect. These functions include, to delay and disrupt the operations of the enemy, counter spinning, destruction of enemy key military personnel or equipment’s, gather battlefield intelligence information through observation, and as a battlefield commentary. Emerging tactical surprises can operate at both the strategic and operational levels as well, and are particularly dangerous as they test the adaptability of military forces. First, we will look at how the establishment of momentum is a determining factor to accomplish the task. Second, we will look at the functions of a sniper in the battlefield. Third, we will look at the role of technological advancement in helping the snipers to be effective in their mission. Method The sources for this article are the authentic textbooks and research papers on world military technologies, snipers training, as well as some fundamental research of the sniper techniques. The methods used in processing the material are: method of continuous selection, method of comparative contextual analysis, method of applied analysis Literature review Battlefield defeats or victory depend on the momentum of the troop units, troop support units and troop service support units. In a contemporary battlefield, particularly in urban areas battlefield, the snipers have a significant role in overtaking the enemy. The sniper's ability to accomplish a task will depend on the formation of momentum on the battlefield (Cruceru, 2012). When performing a historical analysis, it is evident that effects of planning, training, and qualifications surpass the impacts of other parameters, in connection with the development of advanced sniper gun. For example, during World War II, a sniper with standard-issue rifle caused the highest number of enemy casualties. In this chapter, we will look at the momentum, effect and technological advancements of snipers in the battle field. Momentum of snipers in the battle field Various studies have indicated that the effects of planning, training and qualifications are critical parameters in the development of advanced sniper weapons. Planning The snipers success in their roles is determined by successful planning. Through proper planning, the sniper improves his efficiency than what was expected. A good planner must be aware of the snipers skills and characteristics. Even though, the sniper is highly skilled, these skills may be inadequate unless comprehensive planning is done. The factors that are considered during the attack such as enemy, terrain, roles, time, and existing forces should also be considered during sniper role planning. A sniper should have a flexible plan in order to execute the task. In addition, the sniper must also coordinate the enemy information and friendly forces in the task area, the targets, fire support, other control measures and prohibited fire areas with authorities making task plans (Cruceru, 2012). Technical Knowledge and Training Technical knowledge and training is very crucial for the snipers. A sniper must use the appropriate stalking skills while closing with enemies. In addition, snipers should have sheltering and camouflage. Sheltering is very essential because it protects the sniper to be seen by the enemy and camouflage is used to cover their bodies and weapons in the battlefield. For this reasons, these skills are important when used effectively because they protect the sniper from the enemy. Additionally, a sniper must be able to estimate the distance to the target and adjust his weapons and equipment appropriately in order to neutralize the target. A sniper is expected to be close to the rifle all the time. Thus, he should understand all the components of the weapon and the rifle he is using, and use the in any weather, terrain and the condition of the enemy to succeed. A sniper must always be in a position where he can observe the enemy. This means he should have a good spotting ability to identify the enemy areas of weaknesses. For this to be successful, a sniper must follow the shooting procedures, and be in a comfortable position to shoot. As a result, the sniper will obtain to shoot accurately by implementing the rules of correct targeting. Qualifications The snipers are required to be disciplined particularly while planning so they can put the plan into action step by-step. The initial step is taken by a sniper since he is should accomplish the task independently. The sniper is also required to be very near to the enemy squad, and such situation calls for courage. Often the sniper may have to stay in the same position and location under negative weather conditions for long durations. In addition, the physical characteristic of the environment is paramount. The sniper should consider the terrain and weather factors. Thus, the sniper should have advanced physical skills so that he can accomplish his tasks. For example, a duty that must be fulfilled in mountainous terrain and under heavy rain requires advanced physical conditioning. The sniper is an important force in battlefield, particularly in urban warfare. One of the most important roles of war ethics is the discrimination between the combatants and non-combatants. In this respect, snipers are required to have morals, as well as receive the necessary ethics training. The ethical considerations of snipers are very imperative for defending civilian life. For instance, the 1990s conflicts, shooting of innocent people who were burying their relatives, civilians, and children in the streets demonstrated crimes against humanities. In total, 225 civilian had been killed, and 1030 civilians had been injured (Barışık & Baltacıoğlu, 2014). Effects of snipers in the battlefield The modern day battlefield can be described as an area in which the military has a lot of influences the activity of operations that is bound by the entire spectrum of conflict. The snipers are deployed at any phase of the war, low-level operation, day and night, in any weather condition, and in all battlefield environments. Snipers play specific roles that can be implemented into a commanders plan in order to achieve a desired effect. These functions include, to delay and disrupt the operations of the enemy, counter spinning, destruction of enemy key military personnel or equipment’s, gather battlefield intelligence information through observation, and as a battlefield commentary. Destroying the enemy critical military personnel, commanders or assets results in the destruction of the enemies command chain and ability to perform specific tasks that requires specialized equipment or weapons. In order to target the critical threats, spinners are required to perform comprehensive observation and wait patiently to recognize the key goals and their movements, and a possible position for engagement. Additionally, it requires high levels of concealment to enable the sniper to position accurately engage the target and carefully withdraw unnoticed. Introduction of new ammunition such optics development, armour piercing rounds, and sniper rifle has greatly enhanced the ability of the snipers to destroy the key targets accurately at a longer distance. The most demanding task of a sniper is counter spinning. To successfully destroy the enemy snipers, have a great impact on lowering the enemy units’ morale, blinding the enemy commander because of lack of intelligence information, and forward reconnaissance. A sniper may be used to guard a large troop from the enemy snipers. For this to be effectively achieved, a sniper must learn his concealment of his hides and movement, maintain a high level of discipline, and avoid setting patterns to avoid or minimize being tracked or engaged. The snipers must study the enemy counterparts’ routine, tactics, and prepare for the unexpected so that he can identify a possible window of engagement. In addition, snipers are effectively employed so that they can conduct harassing operations by continuously engaging the enemy at a maximum range and multiple times. This allows the commander further time to plan and effect a change in the enemy’s direction, and speed of movement. The resultant change also gives the higher commander the ability to figure and draw the enemy into the engagement area, interfere with the enemy’s tactical deployment and force to look for hasty and unplanned vulnerable tactics. There are many occasions when a single sniper has been interrupted, and resulting in a delayed military formation. The capacity to create this effect indicates the reasons why the snipers are the high priority targets in the battlefield to counter spinning, weaponry bombardments, and in large enemy forces. This is enough evidence to show why snipers must be highly trained to stay unnoticed, able to conduct a difficult escape, and avoidance tactics if compromised or captured (Donaldson, 2011). This also highlights when snipers and other assets are deployed, they need the high command support to provide safety or ability to allow them to achieve a pause and withdrawal when necessary. Advancement in the development of optics, radios, digital cameras, and other forms of technology, snipers are now capable of observing the enemy from long distance standoff positions. This has enabled them to provide detailed content of the enemy dispositions, reactions, habits, and their determination outside of enemy engagement boundaries. The information is very crucial to the commander because he can conduct a more accurate and precise obligatory process to make a sound decision on the battlefield. It can be achieved by an early preparatory and assault during the phases of conflict through the final phases of the reorganization and exploitation phases. After the discovery of the sniper intelligence observation abilities and the constant demand for battlefield intelligence by the commander, it can be argued that snipers both reporting and observation roles are crucial to killing target enemy. The sniper intelligence observation is regarded as the most critical role, because without it he cannot identify and destroy his target. The snipers enhanced and varied types of optics, rifles, ammunitions, and superior quality training are the critical requirements to provide important abilities. These include ability to penetrate armour, remain unnoticed, observe, and engage longer range beyond the enemy’s weapons area of coverage. Nevertheless, a sniper encounters various threats. Some of the most common are limited mission time especially when in isolation, detailed information source when captured by the enemy, and his force ratio (Dougherty, 2013). Therefore, it is emphasized on the importance for careful consideration theta is required by the commander when employing and integrating the snipers into a battle plan. The Use of Snipers in Battle in Accordance With Technological Developments The use of snipers in urban welfare Due to the increase in rural-urban migration, urban population has grown, thus impacting the implementation of military operations. The battlefield has become more in an urban setup. The snipers play significant roles in the urban welfare. Weapons with high accuracy are very crucial to the snipers. However, the use of snipers in the urban areas depends on the rules of engagement. If the requirements allow a large-scale damage, the role of snipers is not necessary because using heavy weapons will be more appropriate. But when the rules of engagements generally forbid collateral damage, snipers are considered to be vital from the commander’s perspective. Snipers tasks in an urban welfare include neutralizing the counter snipers, and conquering the enemy forces to limit the movement of the linked forces. Also, they make accurate shots to the enemy force vehicles and the personnel in the vehicle. Snipers execute shots on the drivers, leaders, and the commanders of armored vehicles of the enemies. In addition, subdue the withdrawing enemies, control the critical terrain, and collect the intelligence, and so on. In a contemporary battle, particularly the urban welfare executed by the NATO forces is associated with several dangers such as mines, explosive materials, and snipers. The snipers have low-level risks and are cost effective, increasing their use in the battlefield. Considering such issues, the usage of the snipers becomes more appropriate. The enemy sniper can shelter in urban terrain, by mixing with the civilian population after the attack, the difficulties in determining their location, and the risk of civilian damage are problems that should be solved. In addition, the challenges in determining the origin of a sniper fire require commanders to consider the risk a sniper can create (Broekhuizen, 2008). Given the significant roles, the uses of snipers will continue to increase in the future battles. The Integration of Technological Developments in Sniper Strategies Ammunition and weapon systems Technology developed in various forms of ammunition and weapon systems has been very paramount. First, the use of a guided sniper rifle bullet is a system that increases will the shooting efficacy of snipers in battle. It is estimated to increase the shooting distance and accuracy level in cases of adverse weather conditions by incorporating optical sight and control systems to ammunition (Barışık & Baltacıoğlu, 2014). Thus, it is easier to target the immobile and mobile targets. Second, sniper may use a single shooting system, in which they have a single opportunity to neutralize the targets. This system provides a chance to neutralize the target under all weather conditions, and with maximum effective range of the weapon. It aims to increase the accuracy level of the first bullet, and reduces the amount of bullets required for neutralization. The system is incorporated into the scope of sniper's rifle. This system measures the target distance by considering the weather conditions and the scope distances. In addition, it takes the role of observers in the sniper team. It is estimated that a single shooting system can replace the observer in the future battlefield. Third, a sniper may use an optical sight system mounted on a weapon to increase long distances shooting capabilities. It is estimated to transform light weapons to precise sniper rifles by installing the system on the rifle. This system provides the targets distance in all direction, the wind speed, environmental pressure, temperature information, and the best position to hit the target. Sniper detection systems There are numerous developments of the sniper detection systems. Difficulties in detecting the small caliber ammunition during the war require enhanced situational responsiveness (Broekhuizen, 2008). Understanding the conditions that are appropriate for the sniper attack, and take the required precautions is very imperative. This has lead to the release of various systems. Inactive systems They are systems that activate after attack from counter-sniper. In other words, these systems require an impact for activation and use several sensors. The counter snipers location and distance are detected by sensors through ammunition fired by counter-snipers, and taking the necessary precautions. A UAV sniper system is one of the inactive systems with long distance combat systems and higher accuracy rates due to its ability to move during day and night. It has more efficient speed and shooting range to provide actual intelligence about the area of operation, and high level of situational analysis. In addition, the position of counter-sniper and the impacts of weather are detected through sensors. The location of counter-snipers is shielded with fire by determining the position with higher accuracy. As a result, the target is deactivated with a high accuracy level (Plaster & John, 2007). Another example is sensor systems to determine the firing location. The processor unit determines the firing range with exact accuracy by the help of laser range finder and distance, and informs the operator. A gunner shoots with the determined range and the snipers are neutralized without significant damages (Donaldson, 2011). Additionally, the sniper detection kit that is usually carried by the personnel has one kilogram weight, and has an acoustic sensor. The bullets shock waves are detected by the sensors, providing the information of firing direction and range (Barışık & Baltacıoğlu, 2014). Active Systems These systems are used to locate the snipers before firing. By using active systems, the primary objective is to detect the sniper's position and then neutralize. These systems work using the blinding laser principle. In the first stage, the optical sight of a sniper weapon is detected by a low-power laser ray. In the second stage, the optical sight is blinded by stronger laser rays to determine the sniper’s location and to distance range (Broekhuizen, 2008). Conclusion This paper has traced the historical development, effects, and the tactical employment of snipers to modern day battlefield. The evolution of snipers has illustrated the tactical lessons learned and development of sniper equipment, and how it has contributed to the modern day sniper and associated abilities. The early conflicts pioneered the today’s sniper characteristics of concealment, strategic employment and soldier skills. Further battlefield environments such have enabled development of skills. In addition, they are considered as experimental theatre to try new concepts of firearms, ammunitions, and optics. Continuous sniper training and operations has given the leaders and the commanders extensive to use snipers in all areas of conflicts and assist in defining the abilities they can provide. The introduction of modern technology equipment’s has enhanced further developing the sniper into multi-skilled assets in the commander’s combat. Modern day snipers and their training have continually increased their observation abilities. The urban welfare has played a significant role in the contemporary battles. The forces that operate in an urban welfare face significant threats from the snipers. Various systems have been developed in order to eliminate that risk. The new systems can determine the sniper's position and neutralize them. The army casualties who employ the established systems in future will have fewer casualties. Today’s battlefield, a sniper is viewed to be strategically positioned and carries several specific tasks. With continuous training and improvements in resources available to a sniper throughout the world has helped to maintain the capability that commander will utilize in future battles. There is a decrease in the rate of collateral damages due to their shooting skills and advancement of technology. References List Barışık E.,& Baltacıoğlu G., (2014). The Employment of Sniper in Modern Battlefield. Journal of Military and Information Science, 2(1), 13-19 Retrieved from.http://www.jmisci.com/index.php/JMIS/article/view/erdm/erdem. Broekhuizen; M. J. (2008 ). Countyersniper Operations in Urban Terrain. Military Technology. pp. 166-173. Cruceru, V. (2012). The Snipers-An Important Tactical Capability in The Equation of Contemporary Conflicts. Revista Academiei Fortelor Terestre, 17(3), 222-228. Donaldson, P. (2011). Counter Sniper Systems. Military Technology, 35(2), 112. Dougherty, M. J. (2013). Sniper: SAS and Elite Forces Guide. Amber Books Ltd. Plaster, Maj & John L. (2007). The History of Sniping and Sharpshooting (2007 ed.). Paladin Press. ISBN 978-1-58160-632-4. Robert, V. (2009). How Military Snipers Work // How Stuff Works – A Discovery Company. Retrieved from: http://science.howstuffworks.com/sniper1.htm Read More