Page 10 - Bugle Autumn 2023

1 RIFLES
Incentive- Reflecting on Exercise ASKARI DELTA in Kenya, the Sniper Platoon
had identified some areas within Rifle Companies where a certain role was not fully exploited to its true potential, and
this was evident in the data received post missions. As Snipers themselves became depleted and stretched across a large area, the Companies would often rely on integral, accurate shooting over longer distances through their own Sharpshooters and it soon became apparent that not all appointed Sharpshooters had received the continuation training necessary prior to deploying.
Course Laydown
Snipers developed a training programme split into three phases:
Technical Phase – week 1
Comprised of theory based and arduous physical training sessions orientated around the complexities of having to carry a bulky, heavier and longer weapon system with various attachments in comparison to the
much lighter and shorter weapon system Riflemen are more familiar with. This was designed to show the Riflemen that they can still carry out tasks they would often find themselves conducting whilst deployed on operations or exercise, such as navigating over obstacles and recovering/carrying additional equipment.
Fieldcraft Phase – weeks 2 and 3
Having spent the first week in Beachley Barracks the troops then deployed to Sennybridge Training Area to conduct the most difficult phase of the course. Using all the standard issued equipment Sharpshooters are given, they covered a variety of skills. Skills that Riflemen learn in Catterick whilst going through training but fine-tuned to suit
a Sharpshooter and their equipment more specifically. This proved challenging for most but nevertheless all Riflemen felt at home in the field.
Marksmanship Phase
– weeks 4 and 5
With the experience and knowledge held within the Sniper platoon, the students
were very quick to show a high standard of shooting consistency. As a result, they all
Fieldcraft, using the ground to stalk a target
Fieldcraft, Camouflage and Concealment
all given the chance.
Riflemen felt at home in the field
Moving Forward
Delivering continuation training for those
in specific roles such as general-purpose machine gunner and Sharpshooter, unlocks the sense of purpose empowering them
in their role. The Sharpshooter Cadre was
a success and is considered a very good pathway to potentially joining Sniper platoon. CSjt D McGinley, OC Sniper Pl
successfully passed the cadre and returned to their Companies with a clear understanding of what a Sharpshooter is capable of offering
Fieldcraft. Reading the ground to achieve their mission
10 RIFLES The Bugle
SHARPSHOOTER CADRE