Sniper team


 * For other uses see Sniper (disambiguation).



A sniper team (or sniper cell) consists of a sniper/s, force protection elements and support personnel such as a spotter. Members can sometimes fulfill multiple roles. The sniper/s fires the shot while the spotter/s assists in observation of targets, atmospheric conditions and handles ancillary tasks as immediate security of their location, communication with other parties; including directing artillery fire and close air support.

The spotter detects, observes, and assigns targets and watches for the results of the shot. Using their spotting scope, they will also read the wind by using physical indicators and the mirage caused by the heat on the ground. Also, in conjunction with the shooter, they will accurately make calculations for distance, angle shooting (slant range), mil dot related calculations, correction for atmospheric conditions and leads for moving targets. It is not unusual for the spotter to be equipped with a notepad and a laptop computer specifically for performing these calculations.

They also provide the team security, therefore they are usually armed with an assault rifle or battle rifle.

Some military doctrines describe a third member known as the flanker. Their task is to have observed areas not visible to the sniper or spotter and assist with the team's rear security.