Finland’s Military Enhances Sniper Training Inspired By Ukraine Conflict

Finnish sniper training in a snowy winter environment. Finnish sniper training in a snowy winter environment.

The Finnish Defence Forces (FDF) are set to modernize their sniper training programs, taking valuable lessons from the ongoing war in Ukraine. This initiative aims to improve the effectiveness of snipers by incorporating longer shooting ranges and more realistic training scenarios.

Key Takeaways

  • The FDF is constructing a new 600-meter rifle range to facilitate long-distance training.
  • Training will now include dynamic shooting, where participants engage moving targets.
  • Increased demand for shooting ranges has prompted significant upgrades and environmental considerations.

Modernizing Sniper Training

Colonel Juhana Skyttä, Commander of the Armoured Brigade, highlighted the importance of snipers in contemporary warfare, particularly in light of the strategies observed in Ukraine. He stated that effective sniper operations necessitate training at extended distances. While initial training can occur at shorter ranges (150 to 300 meters), proficiency requires practice at 600 meters.

To meet this need, the FDF plans to build a new 600-meter rifle range at the Hälvälä shooting sports center in Hollola, near Lahti. Currently, the FDF faces limitations in long-distance shooting facilities, which hampers sniper training. The new range will not only serve FDF snipers but also benefit reservists and other organizations.

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Dynamic Shooting Training

The revamped training program will increasingly incorporate dynamic shooting exercises, where participants will move and shoot at moving targets. This approach requires updates to existing ranges, as shooting distances will vary from a few meters to 150 meters. Colonel Skyttä explained that this type of training builds confidence and enhances weapon handling skills in high-pressure situations.

However, dynamic shooting presents challenges, particularly regarding safety. The Hälvälä range has limited space for additional safety structures, but modern solutions, such as electronic targets that register hits, are being explored to mitigate risks.

Rising Demand for Shooting Ranges

The Hälvälä shooting range has seen a surge in usage, with over half a million shots fired annually, marking a one-third increase compared to previous years. While civilian hobbyists account for most of the activity, training by the FDF and volunteers for national defense courses has also grown significantly.

This increased demand has prompted the FDF to enhance the range facilities. Recent updates to environmental permits have included measures to protect groundwater and reduce noise pollution. Captain Pasi Suvitie, training area officer for the Armoured Brigade, noted that protective structures have minimized environmental impacts while maintaining shooting activities.

Environmental Considerations

The FDF has invested 25 million euros over seven years to ensure that all shooting ranges comply with environmental regulations. This initiative was crucial, as many ranges faced potential closure without these upgrades. Key improvements included groundwater protection and noise reduction, significantly decreasing the number of properties exposed to shooting noise.

Teemu Pasanen, an environmental specialist at the FDF’s Logistics Command, emphasized the importance of balancing shooting activities with environmental measures. The lessons learned from this project will guide future maintenance and construction of shooting ranges, ensuring compliance with stricter groundwater protection regulations.

In conclusion, Finland’s military is taking proactive steps to enhance its sniper training programs, drawing from the lessons of the Ukraine conflict. By investing in new facilities and modern training techniques, the FDF aims to ensure that its snipers are well-prepared for the challenges of modern warfare.

Sources

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