Terror threat

Afghan Taliban integrating sniper teams into units

The Afghan Taliban have integrated sniper teams into their new units in southern Helmand Province, a local resident recently told IHS Jane's on condition of anonymity.

Called qet'a, the units consist of up to 220 fighters, who are divided into subgroups of 20 men and resemble more conventional military units than loosely organised insurgent fronts (mahaz), a local analyst noted.

Up to six fighters in each subgroup use designated marksman rifles and operate separately in small sniper teams during an attack, usually eliminating Afghan National Defence and Security Forces (ANDSF) in guard towers from distances of up to 600 m, according to the local source.