Counter - sniper tactics The occurrence of sniper warfare has led to the evolution of counter - sniper tactics . Such tactics aim to reduce the damage caused by a sniper to a fighting force , which can often be harmful to both fighting capabilities and morale . Reducing the risk of damage . During the stalking phase of his attack a sniper will , if time allows , try to identify high - value targets such as senior officers or senior NCOs . He will do this by closely observing the behavior of the people in front of him . His intention is to identify who is in charge and then prepare to fire at them . It naturally follows that leaders should attempt to blend into the background by avoiding anything that distinguishes them from the most junior soldiers and attracts the interest of a sniper . In order to reduce a sniper ' s ability to damage the chain of command , doctrine and equipment need to prevent any observable " leadership " behaviors and signs . Insignia , e . g . rank insignia , should be subdued ( dark / black as opposed to bright colors ) , camouflage colors on camouflage , battle - dress identical for all ranks , military servants and rank - based luxuries ( like saluting ) avoided in forward areas , and commands and instruction should be given discreetly . Additionally , other acts such as looking at maps , using a radio , pointing authoritatively , abstaining from menial tasks and other forms of body language can betray an officer ' s rank . However , it is important to emphasize that if a sniper cannot identify an officer or NCO , he may then select any person that he has a good chance of hitting . Valuable assets should be parked in sand - bagged redoubt s until they are launched , preventing " anti - materiel " attacks . This is a prudent tactic in any circumstance , as it prevents damage from fragments . Locating an attacking sniper . Because snipers use camouflage , choose their firing positions carefully and often attack from long distances , they are difficult to locate . Gunshot location system s have been developed to do this . These may sense a variety of signatures including : When the trajectory of the bullet can be sensed , backtracking can be done to calculate the sniper ' s location . Sensor techniques are often used in combination to improve detection and eliminate false alarm s . Sniper vs . sniper . A friendly sniper is generally the most effective counter - sniper tool . With similar training , knowledge of the surroundings , and equipment , the friendly sniper can offer advice to the squad , enhanced searching capability , and combat the enemy sniper directly . When told what to watch for , the squad can also act as additional eyes and ears for the friendly sniper . Aside from watching over the squad , the friendly sniper also has the option to detach and engage the enemy sniper . Without any outside help from the squad , the respective skills of each sniper play a significant role in determining victory . " Triangulation : " technique at two or more locations can more accurately identify the position of a sniper at the time of firing . Counter - attacking the sniper . Once a sniper ' s position is known or suspected , other options follow :