POST TRAINING REPORTSNIPER TRAINING RSLF 2012-14

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SNIPER TRAINING – RSLFPOST TRAINING REPORT

PAK ARMY SNIPER TRAINING TEAM - KHAMIS MUSHAYT

Preamble

1. Snipers have quietly emerged as one of the most effective but least understood weapons in

the wars in present warfare era. Advancements in technology and training have made them

deadlier than in any previous generation. Their ability to deliver accurate shots minimizes collateral

damage — a key factor in counterinsurgency — and they are often more effective than much

ballyhooed drones at secretly collecting intelligence. The sporadic exhibition of snipers application

in operations around the world, particularly in Middle East, Africa and Asia has further highlighted

its importance.

2. Military training has remained a significant facet of cooperation between Pakistan Army and

RSLF, most recent addition to which is Sniper training, where Pakistan sniper team has been

training Snipers of RSLF. Pakistan Army Sniper Training Team organized training in Infantry

Training Institute. Twelve “Sniper Courses” were organized. The curriculum ranged from enabling

the participants to understand basic concept of Sniper role and employment to practice basic drills

and procedures at sub-tactical level.

Aim3. To analyse Sniper Training imparted to RSLF with a view to discuss standards achieved,

identify grey areas and signify role of Pak Army Sniper Training Team.

Sequence4. Pre Training Activities

a. Planning.

b. Arrival of Team.

5. Conduct of Training a. Sniper Course.

b. Infantry Institute Sniper Instructors Training.

c. Standards Achieved.

6. Peripheral Training Activities a. Assistance to Infantry Institute.

b. Assistance in Development of Training Facilities.

7. Problem Areas.

8. Recommendations.

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PRE-TRAINING ACTIVITIESPlanning9. Arrival of Team . Arrival of Team to Khamis Mushayt was undertaken as following: -

a. Team was assembled at SD Directorate on 8 November 2012.

b. On night 9/10 November the team leader and a team NCO moved from Islamabad to

Abha / Khamis via Jeddah by air.

c. Second NCO joined the team on 20 Nov 2012 at Khamis.

10. Composition of Team . The Team Comprised of following members: -

a. Maj Shariq Saud Baanday, BR - Team Leader

b. Hav Raja Tahir Khan, AK - Training NCO / Sniper Instructor

c. Hav Nasir Khan, FF - Sniper Instructor

11. Preparation of Training Plan . In consultation with Infantry Training Institute a Two Year

Training Plan was formulated in sink with training plan received from Training Directorate, Riyadh.

According to plan, Pak Sniper Team was supposed to conduct Sniper Courses for unit groups

selected by formations. In addition to basic mission, Team was asked to organise training for

Infantry Institute Saudi Sniper Instructors after sniper courses during breaks. The summary of

training plan is as under: -

Serial Training Type Duration (Weeks)

Planned Courses

Intake Remarks

a. Sniper Course 8 12 <55

b. Train The Trainers (T3) 1-2 5 <10 Weapon Training Cadre

12. Pre Training Preparations . Following preparations were conducted by training Team

after arrival: -

a. Visit of Training Facilities of Infantry Institute . Training facilities available in

the Region were visited by training Team and a comprehensive post visit report was

forwarded to Infantry Institute for utilization of these facilities alongwith relevant

recommendations.

b. Preparation of Training Plan and conduct methodology.

c. Preparation of syllabus and hand-outs (modules) in consultation with Infantry

Institute Authorities.

d. Detailed weekly programme with lesson plans.

e. Provision of reference material for translations.

f. Conduct of briefings and presentations to concerned Infantry Institute authorities for

necessary consent and approval.

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CONDUCT OF TRAININGSniper Course13. Training Objectives . Following objectives were set forth for Sniper Courses:-

a. Concept of Operations (1) Train students in employment of Light / Medium Sniper and Heavy Sniper

Teams in all operations of war including Low Intensity Conflict (LIC).

(2) Introduce modern shooting and employment concepts to students and follow

up to enhance their understanding of the topics and improve technique and

tactics.

b. Command and Training Functions (1) Proficiency in organizing the training of sniper teams as instructors at unit

level.

(2) Produce effective leaders and commanders who can plan and conduct sniper

operations at different levels and environments.

c. Training Skills (1) Enhance firing proficiency at longer ranges.

(2) Enhance Field Craft, observation skills and physical / mental endurance with

special emphasis on back to basics

14. Selection Criteria . Comprehensive selection criteria were formulated to provide guidelines

to units and formations for selection of students for Sniper Course as attached at Annex A.

15. Training Methodology a. Modules . 5 Modules were planned for which separate hand-outs for each module

were also prepared in English and handed over to Infantry Institute for Arabic

translation. These modules form the basis of Sniper syllabus and are comprehensive

in all respects. However, improvement and revision of English scripts has been a

continuous process.

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الميدانية المهارات14%

18المتقدم %

تدريب األسل حة والتعامل 30 %

التكتيكا

ت والمنفذين

3%

الرم اية35%

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Figure – 1 (Training Modules)

b. Method of Instructions . Training was methodically organized as theoretical

lectures, weapon handling, firing practices and exercises with maximum focus on fire

and practicing drills / skills, a graphical view (Figure – 2) is shown as under: -

Figure – 2 (Methods of Instruction)

c. Evaluation System . Grading system is shown at Figure 3. The system is

comprehensive and provides sufficient weightage to all aspects. Details are as

under:-

.

Figure – 3 (Grading System)

d. Maintenance of Records (1) Data Logs are maintained on computer by Training NCO for each student to

record their daily performance.

(2) Comprehensive data base is prepared to maintain students’ results.

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التقييم

المحاضرات النظرية

15%

والتقنية المهارات

التماري8%ن الخارجية

التعامل مع األسلحةالرماي16%

35 ة %

Factor Graded Value

Knowledge (2 x Tests) 20 Graded marks

Application (3 x Outdoor Exercises') 30 Graded marks

Firing (14 x Tests) 40 Graded marks

Discipline & Physical Training 10 Graded marks

Total 100 Graded marks

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(3) Course reports are prep at the end of course and forwarded to Infantry

Institute. A sample course report is attached at Annex B.16. Conduct of Training Activities

a. Theoretical Training . Theoretical training has been imparted to provide an in-

depth knowledge about conceptual aspects of Sniper Operations. It constitutes about

15% of entire training and was imparted in form of Tutorial Discussions.

b. Practical Training . Drills, procedures, weapon handling, firing and physical training

has been conducted through repeated practices comprising 85% of entire training in

following forms: -

(1) Exercises (a) Navigation Exercise

(b) Field Craft and Minor Operations Exercises

(2) Practical Training (a) Day and night Firing Practices

(b) Drills and Procedures

(c) Up-Hill and Down-Hill Firing

(3) Physical Training (a) Physical Exercises

(b) Battle PT

Infantry Institute Sniper Instructors Training17. On request of Infantry Institute authorities a 1-2 weeks familiarization cadres for Infantry

Institute Sniper Instructors has been included in the training schedule. Training has been imparted

through lectures presentations and weapon handling.

Standards Achieved18. Sniper Course . This course has been the mainstay of Sniper training of RSLF by Pak

Training Team. The team was able to achieve goals by equipping students with sufficient skills to

perform as snipers in their own units and formations. The details of every course were separately

covered in respective Post Course Reports, However, brief account is as under: -

a. Summary of Results (1) Total attendees were 135 out of which 89 qualified and 46 could not.

(2) Overall 65.92 % students qualified the training.

(3) Graphical Summary of results of all 10 courses is as under: -

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Ser 27/28 Ser 29/30 Ser 31/32 Ser 33/34 Ser 35/36 Ser 37/38 Under

Progress

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

10

19

15 14

31

0.1

4

1210

7

13

0.1

Passed

Failed

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PERIPHERAL TRAINING ACTIVITIES

Assistance to Infantry Institute19. Preparation of Training Material . A Training Library is set up by Sniper Team which

contains reference and training material being used by Sniper Team and which can be further

utilised by Institute of Infantry for Training of Sniper in various courses.

a. Following training materials, handouts and lectures are being held in library: -

(1) Handout – Sniper Training Plan

(2) Handout – Sniper Training Manual (For Instructors)

(3) Handout – Sniper Training Manual (For Students)

(4) Handout – Mission Training Plan (MTP)

(5) Handout – Firing Conduct and Evaluation

(6) Handout – Sniper Log Book

(7) Handout – Outdoor Exercise

(8) Synopsis – Sniper Courses

(9) Lectures / Power point Presentations

(10) Questionnaire Sniper Courses

b. Maintenance of Records . Following record is maintained for ready

reference:-

(1) Exam Papers Sniper Courses

(2) Evaluation Proformae

(3) Course Reports of Students – Sniper Courses

(4) Post Course Reports – Sniper Courses

Assistance in Development of Training Facilities20. Besides conduct of Sniper Training, the Team was also requested for input on

development, establishment and renovation of training facilities in Institute of Infantry. Team

provided assistance in following: -

a. Development of Up-Hill and Down-Hill Firing Range Training Facility.

b. Development of Moving Target Trolley System at Sniper Range.

c. Renovation and uplift of existing Sniper Range.

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CHALLENGES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Major Challenges

21. Training . Following major challenges were faced by the team during training period: -

a. Non adherence of Selection Criteria (1) Composition was not justified in rank and service structure.

(2) Overage and overweight individuals were also detailed.

(3) Mostly students had no firing experience.

b. Irregular Attendance (1) Irregular attendance was major predicament.

(2) After missing any activities, students are likely to lack practical experience

resulting in lack of confidence during imparting training in units.

(3) Dropout of students was only considered due to absentees.

c. Provision of Training Assistance . Following assistance was not provided

which affected training:-

(1) Computers, printers and scanner (Only one computer and printer was issued

against the demand of 3 computers, 2 printers and 1 scanner).

(2) Night Vision Devices provided for night fire were less than demanded (Only 2

Night Vision Devices to conduct night fire for 44 Students).

(3) Explosives / Smoke Grenades.

(4) Blank ammunition was not provided for maximum training activities.

(5) Ammunition provided was less than demanded.

(6) Practices on Moving Target Trolley System Training Facilities could not be

conducted due to non availability of the required facility.

(7) Translation facilities of written material were not done, which badly affected

improvement of training material.

d. Non sharing of information / feedback on performance of Sniper Courses :(1) No feedback is provided on performance of Sniper Courses.

(2) Training Team has no picture of effectiveness of final product.

22. Administration . Certain problems were encountered by Team in its administration,

some of which were settled with personal involvement of Officers of Infantry Institute, some of the

problems that need attention of concerned authorities are: -RESTRICTED

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a. Provision of Sanitary Worker for accommodation and office area.

b. Provision of office bearers.

Recommendations23. Training

a. Selection Criteria . For future assignment Infantry Institute must ensure that

selection criteria are forwarded to respective units and formations well in time.

(1) Regional HQs must ensure that trainees are strictly selected against the

proposed selection criteria.

(2) Institutions and Teams should have clear authorization to send the individuals

back if not meeting criteria.

b. Ensuring Attendance . Training institutions and units should take necessary

steps in the light of instructions from Training Department which should ensure

attendance of students in training activity as once missed, consequently resulting in

disqualification.

c. Provision of Translation Facilities . Translation facilities should be provided

throughout the duration of training thus allowing team to continuously improve and

make additions to training material etc.

d. Provision of Training Assistance . Training assistance is asked quite in

advance which should be made available in time and also confirmed beforehand to

ensure smooth and meaningful conduct of training. Training Support Team should

have certain assistance at their disposal, including ammunition etc to ensure their

availability as per demand of training activity.

24. Training Team Related a. Support Staff . Team Composition should cater for Support Staff including

Despatch Rider/ Office Bearer, Interpreter and Clerk to make it fully functional outfit.

b. Training Grant . An appropriate amount as training grant may be kept at disposal

of Training Team for preparation of various training aids and other expenditures

related to training activities.

c. Provision of Transport . Transport for training Teams should be specified while

contracting teams and provided on arrival. Adhoc arrangements create severe

problems during training and in routine administration of team as they are fully

dependant on Saudi authorities for their training as well as administrative tasks.

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d. Exemption of Govt Fees . Pak Training Teams should be exempted from payment

of all government fees, including Iqama preparation and renewal fee, exit and re-

entry visa fees etc for themselves and their dependants.

e. Hajj Arrangements . Kingdom is blessed with Most Prestigious Masajid Al

Haramain. It is desire of every Muslim to perform Hajj once in his life. It is great

opportunity to visit these Holly places during Hajj. It is recommended that

arrangement of Hajj may be made through RSLF since Teams are not well familiar

with procedures and have been swindled on this account.

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Annex A

SELECTION CRITERIA FOR SNIPER COURSE

1. General . During training of Sniper Course 33 & 34 it has been observed that quality of

students is generally satisfactory, however some of the grey areas have been observed in different

facets of selection criteria. In order to assist and advise the RSLF on selection of quality Snipers,

following factors have been proposed to be considered for subsequent selection:-

a. Selection of Snipers . While selecting the Snipers from a unit or brigade group,

their future task must be envisaged. Good fire and mental / physical/medical fitness

should be given priority. Recommendation as sniper to individuals with good firing

skills by Infantry Institute during the initial professional courses will assist the

commanders in selection of good snipers at all levels.

b. Professional Competence

(1) Individuals with good professional background / positive prospects should be

selected.

(2) Should have experience of firing.

(3) Physically and medically fit.

(4) Eye sight 6 x 6.

(5) Should be motivated and willing to undergo training as well as perform as

trainer in future.

(6) Individuals having operational experience should be given preference.

c. Age and Service

(1) Service should be between 3 – 12 years.

(2) Maximum age limit should be 30 years.

d. Miscellaneous Aspects

(1) Must be medically fit.

(2) Should have positive attitude.

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Annex B

SNIPER COURSE – REPORT

Army Number: 360437 Rank: Naik Name : Fahd Bin Saeed Abdur RehmanUnit : Qateeba Al Aman Wa Al Harasa Sani Course: Sniper Course – 34 Duration : 19 Dec 13 to 20 Feb 14

Performance Graph

Knowledge Application Firing Discipline and Conduct05

10152025303540

20

30

40

1016.24

26.60 28.17

8.00

Marks Obtained

Total 100 79.02 (Good)Pen Picture

A very Intelligent NCO, who is dignified, self composed and inquisitive.

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-----------------.A lively, tactful and cooperative NCO, who can generate a lot of team spirit. He is

exceptionally energetic and endeavours for the good standards of physical fitness.

The NCO secured 1st position out of 7 students in 28th Sniper Course and is recommended to be employed as an instructor at Formation level.

MajorTeam Leader

(Shariq Saud Baanday)

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SNIPER TRAINING

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GRADING SHADES

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Grade PercentageExcellent 90 % - 100 %Very good 80 % - 89.99 %Good 70 % - 79.99 %Satisfactory 57 % - 69.99 %Fail 56.99 % & Below