Snipers: Masters of Disguise

Snipers are masters of disguise, sometimes changing their camouflage several times before reaching a target.

In the snow, a sniper’s concealment involves more than wearing white. A ghillie suit breaks up the recognizable outline of the head, shoulders and body, helping the wearer blend into the surrounding terrain. Movement can betray that disguise, so snipers move slowly and methodically, taking care to remain concealed as they advance.

The terrain may change along the route, requiring a sniper to change camouflage several times before reaching the target. What blends into open snow may stand out against trees, exposed rock or dark vegetation. When done right, someone could pass within 16 feet of a sniper without knowing they are there.

British army snipers show us how it’s done in the snow, at a military base in Estonia. Thanks to the folks at NATO for making the vid.