Long Range Sniper Ballistic Solutions

Pictured is the Cheytac 408 tac driver....this thing is just getting warmed up at 1500 yards.

SOCOM released a Request for Proposal (RFP) back in June of this year for Research and Development in the areas of Ballistic sensors.  It looks like the response date closed September 30.  Kit Up will keep an eye out for the winner which should be announced sometime in December according to sources.  The program summary and requirements are outlined below. Enjoy!  -Brandon

Example: Nightforce Windows Based Ballistic Software Program

Program Summary

The Department of Defense, U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), has a requirement for research and development in the following technology areas: Long Range Sniper Ballistic Solution Sensors and Computers, Sniper/Designated Marksman Affordable Ballistic Solutions, Enhanced Target Detection and Identification, Enhanced Ergonomics, and Virtual Training.

Requirements

• Long Range Sniper Ballistic Solution Sensors and Computers:
  
  
  
  • USSOCOM warfighters require
    technologies that provide the capability to measure continuously or sample winds at multiple ranges, from multiple directions and at varying speeds all the way from muzzle to target. A discrete vs. continuous sampling (average) of the wind vector is acceptable. The measure of effectiveness being the increase in first round hits at extended ranges. Technologies that measure or receive input from other devices for range, angle of fire, cant, temperature, humidity, air density, angular rate of moving targets. The technology must rapidly and accurately integrate the sensor data and compute a ballistic solution based on individual weapon and ammunition resulting in hits on stationary personnel size targets at 1500m and moving targets to 1000m. The technology must interface with issued ballistic tools to give a range and wind correction in mils or minutes of angle (MOA) that can be applied on the shooters weapon though hold or dial on data. This capability is specifically aimed at improving sniper first round target hits on stationary personnel sized targets out to 1500m Threshold and 2000m Objective.
  
  
  
  


• Sniper/Designated Marksman Affordable Ballistic Solutions:
  
  
  
  • Technologies that provide affordable ballistic solution enhancements to meet the objectives of current SOF sniper rifles and assist the sniper in operating more effectively without the support of a spotter. The technology must be light, affordable, provide accurate hold offs compatible with current weapons and optics, and be easily trained and rapidly employed. This capability is specifically aimed at maintaining and improving sniper first round target hits out to 1000m Threshold and 2000m Objective.
  
  
  
  


• Enhanced Target Detection and Identification:
  
  
  
  • Technologies that provide enhancements for snipers to detect camouflage, gunfire, and threat optics, recognize weapons/uniforms, facial features, and visually augmented day/night vision, at extend the ranges to 1500m Threshold 2000m Objective. This capability is specifically aimed at improving the snipers ability to locate and identify targets commensurate with the rules of engagement.
  
  
  
  


• Enhanced Ergonomics:
  
  
  
  • Technologies that would significantly reduce the size, weight, and power consumption of the snipers mission equipment. Technologies that enhance the man/machine interface with the weapons system making easier, quicker and more intuitive in operation, and/or simplifying training requirements.
  
  
  
  


• Virtual Training:
  
  
  
  • Technologies to provide “virtual” training that adapts to the individual’s
    knowledge level, reticle patterns, and scope adjustments in mils and minutes of angle while accurately modeling the effects of wind, atmospheric conditions, altitude, range, angle of fire, etc., in varying terrain and include target detection / identification. This capability is specifically aimed at maintaining and improving sniper first round target hits out to 1500m Threshold and 2000m Objective while reducing training resource requirements.