Snipers from the Soviet Union played a crucial and distinctive role in the context of World War II. Tasked with providing long-range cover and eliminating high-value targets, such as commanding officers, these sharpshooters filled a critical gap, considering the challenges military organizations faced in replacing non-commissioned officers (NCOs) and experienced officers during wartime.
During the period from 1941 to 1943, the Soviet snipers enjoyed a significant advantage, which contributed to their effectiveness. However, as time went on, the German army began to regain the upper hand.
What set the Soviet snipers apart was the inclusion of women in their ranks. Unlike the armies of other nations, the Soviet Union embraced the participation of female snipers. By 1943, there were over 1,000 women holding sniper positions, making significant contributions to the war effort.