Russian troops demonstrated the use of a realistic mock sniper position.

The milinfolive Telegram channel published the photos.

The pictures show a figure disguised as a sniper, wearing a camouflage suit commonly known as ‘wood goblin’ or ‘kikimora.’

In addition, the “sniper” is equipped with a crudely constructed mock rifle. The position appears quite realistic: the figure is placed deep inside a room, the “rifle” is mounted on a stand with bipods made of large-caliber ammunition, the posture is close to natural, and the face may appear real at first glance.

Such a mock setup could be used for counter-sniper operations.

In particular, it could be used to provoke a Ukrainian sniper into taking a shot, followed by the detection and suppression of their position using artillery, drones, enemy snipers, or other firepower.

Additionally, such figures can divert attention from the real sniper position, misleading Ukrainian forces.

Meanwhile, the effectiveness of this tactic may be questionable. If a Ukrainian sniper is using a thermal scope, they might not notice the mock setup, as it doesn’t emit enough heat.

To enhance realism, especially during colder months like winter or early spring, the mannequin would likely need to be heated.

Moreover, high-quality optical scopes could easily identify the deception due to the rough construction of the mock rifle and other subtle inaccuracies in the details.

Earlier, in the summer of 2023, footage of fake artillery positions appeared online. The Russian military disguised the models of the service personnel by dressing them in uniforms, helmets and body armor, and arming them with dummy assault rifles and even artillery bussols.

For greater realism, spent cartridge cases were scattered around the positions. Additionally, the enemy periodically changed the positions of the mock weapons and brought in vehicles, simulating the operations of real artillery units.