As the war in Ukraine has demonstrated the devastating power of snipers, US special operations forces are on the hunt for an extreme long-range rifle to enhance their capabilities in potential high-intensity conflicts.
Special Operations Command’s Quest for a New Sniper Rifle
In December, the US Special Operations Command (SOCOM) issued a solicitation for offers to acquire a new sniper rifle, marking the beginning of their search for advanced weaponry.
SOCOM has set specific criteria for this new rifle, named the Extreme Long Range-Sniper Rifle (ELR-SR).
Modernizing the Sniper Arsenal
The ELR-SR program aims to replace the aging M107 Barret and MK15 anti-personnel and anti-materiel sniper rifles with a cutting-edge modular, magazine-fed, and multi-caliber capable system.
A key requirement is that operators should be able to swap barrels within just five minutes.
Weight and Range Considerations
SOCOM is determined to make the ELR-SR significantly lighter than its predecessors.
With a maximum weight limit of 22 lbs, the ELR-SR will be approximately 9 lbs lighter than the M107 Barret and 5 lbs lighter than the MK15. In terms of range, the ELR-SR is expected to perform similarly to older sniper rifles.
Precision and Durability
This new sniper rifle should possess the ability to hit targets at distances of up to 2,500 meters (1.5 miles) and maintain a barrel life between 1,200 and 1,500 rounds.
Firing .300 Magnums
It should also be capable of firing the .300 Norma Magnum bullet, which has been approved by the Department of Defense, as well as subsonic and supersonic rounds.
Suppressor Compatibility and Reduced Recoil
SOCOM has specified that the ELR-SR must accommodate a sound suppressor no longer than 8.5 inches, with recoil-reducing attributes.
Minimizing recoil is essential, as less recoil enhances the shooter’s accuracy.
The Role of Snipers in Special Operations
Snipers have always played a significant role in special operations. In teams of 12-16 commandos, a considerable number are sniper-qualified, maximizing the group’s firepower.
These elite forces rely on the precision and lethality of sniper weapons to accomplish various missions.
Sniper Operations on the Battlefield
Recent events in Ukraine have emphasized the importance of sniper operations in modern warfare.
Longest Sniper Kill
Ukrainian forces claimed the longest sniper kill in history when Vyacheslav Kovalskiy, a commando with the country’s security services, neutralized a Russian soldier from an astounding distance of 3,800 meters (almost 2.4 miles).
This achievement has underscored the impact of snipers on the battlefield.
Psychological Impact
Sniper operations, particularly in trench warfare and urban settings like those in Ukraine, have a profound psychological impact on both enemy troops and friendly forces.
The presence of a skilled sniper adds pressure and tension to combat situations, making the battlefield even more challenging.
US Military’s Vigilance
The US military and special operations community have closely monitored the situation in Ukraine for years, drawing valuable lessons in warfare and technology.
Staying Prepared
As they prepare for future challenges and seek to maintain a competitive edge against potential adversaries like China or Russia, SOCOM’s pursuit of a new sniper rifle reflects their commitment to staying well-prepared.