Belgian snipers are the best in Europe

20/10/2017

Snipers from a Belgian army unit from Leopoldsburg have won the gold medal in the second edition of the 'European Best Snipers Squad Competition', organised by the US Army, in the German federal state of Bavaria.

Between 24 and 28 September, they had to demonstrate their shooting skills from a helicopter, from a boat and during the night; they were tested on camouflage, survival, infiltration and navigation techniques, as well as physical trials, including an obstacle course and a 20K hike.

Sixteen European teams, mainly from NATO countries, and two American teams, competed for the honourable award. Belgium came before Sweden and the Czech Republic in the final score.

Defence comprises 70 to 80 snipers in different units. Each year, 12 candidates receive the training. One of them witnessed anonymously: "On the terrain, we carry our complete equipment: 35 to 40K, a precision gun to hit a target from 1,200 metres, a weapon for near defence, such as a P90 machine gun, night vision equipment ... Sometimes we cover no more than 2 km/h, crawling under trees and shrubs, so as not to be seen or heard. So you must be in great shape, both mentally and physically."

Unlike a marksman, a sniper teams up with his spotter, who gives him all the necessary clues: distance, wind speed, air pressure …