INTRODUCTION
GAIN ATTENTION
PURPOSE
The purpose of this period of instruction is to provide the student with the basic knowledge of camouflage techniques that may be used in an urban environment.
INDIVIDUAL TRAINING STANDARDS
Ref: FMF 1-3b, FMFM 0-11, II MEF SOTG URBAN SNIPER COURSE
8541.3.1, 8541.3.2
MISSION PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Ref: II MEF SOTG URBAN SNIPER COURSE
8541.1.1.18
TERMINAL LEARNING OBJECTIVE
Without the aid of references, apply the proper camouflage techniques to remain undetected while operating in urban terrain.
ENABLING LEARNING OBJECTIVE
Without the aid of references, know the 12 considerations of urban camouflage techniques.
METHOD AND MEDIA
This period of instruction will be taught through lecture aided by a static display.
TESTING
This period of instruction will be evaluated during practical application.
TRANSITION
BODY
1. Camouflage Techniques for Urban Terrain
To survive in urban combat, the sniper must supplement cover and concealment with camouflage. To properly camouflage himself, the sniper must study the surroundings of his area of operations. Firing positions MUST look like the surrounding terrain. For instance, if there is no damage to buildings, the sniper will not make loopholes for firing. The sniper also uses only the material absolutely needed for preparing his position, any excess material may reveal the location. The sniper will also use a wide area to gather the needed material. For example, if positioned in a city park, material will be gathered from a wide area taking care not to denude a small area near his position.
2. Concealed Positions within Buildings
Thick masonry, stone or brick walls offer excellent protection from direct fire and provide concealed routes. If the tactical situation permits, the sniper will inspect positions from the enemy’s viewpoint. He will also conduct routine checks to see if the camouflage is urban material looking and actually conceals his firing position. Blouses should not be removed as exposed skin reflects light and could attract the enemy’s attention.
3. Considerations for Urban Camouflage
a. Use of Shadows – Buildings throw sharp shadows. The sniper will use shadows to aid in concealment during movement. He will avoid lighted areas around windows and loopholes. A lace curtain or piece of cheesecloth is an additional source of concealment that blends into the urban area.
b. Color and Texture – The need to break up the silhouette of helmets and individual equipment exists in urban areas. Instead of the foliage used for rural camouflage, burlap of canvas strips are a more effective camouflage garnish while operating in a city or town. Predominant colors are browns, tans and sometimes grays. However, each camouflage location should be evaluated individually for the proper use of color.
c. Dust – In weapons emplacement a wet blanket, canvas, etc., should be used to keep dust from rising when weapons are fired.
d. Background – Snipers must pay attention to the background to ensure that the area is not silhouetted or sky lined. All firing positions must blend into their surroundings.
e. Common Camouflage Errors – To defeat enemy urban camouflage, the sniper should look for errors such as tracks or other signs of military activity, shine or shadows, unnatural or peculiar colors or textures, muzzle flash smoke, or unnatural sounds or smells, and above all else – movement.
f. Deception – Dummy positions can be used effectively to distract the enemy or to cause him to reveal his firing position.
g. Use the terrain and alter camouflage habits to suit the surroundings.
h. Do not forget the deceptive camouflage of buildings.
i. Continue to improve positions. Reinforce firing positions with sandbags or other shrapnel and blast absorbing material.
j. Do not upset the natural look of the area.
k. Do not make positions obvious by clearing away too much debris when clearing fields of fire.
l. Choose firing points as inconspicuous as possible.
QUESTIONS
SUMMARY
The MOUT Homepage Hot Links:
The Need for Snipers in MOUT (CALL - Somalia)
Scout/Sniper Platoon - 2nd Battalion - 23rd Marines
Sniper Country (Internet guide to sniper operations)
Police Sniper Training (Minnesota National Guard Counter Sniper School)
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