Designated Marksman (DM)

The Designated Marksman (DM) is a specialized billet within MSOT 8213 – Task Force Raven. The DM provides precision fire at extended ranges beyond the capability of standard rifles, while still fighting as part of the fireteam or element.

Unlike snipers, DMs do not operate independently. They are organic to the team and ensure that the MSOT can deliver accurate, long-range fire support without losing mobility.

Responsibilities

Provide precision fire against enemy personnel and key targets (MGs, RPG gunners, leaders).
Maintain overwatch positions during patrols and operations.
Support the fireteam/element with accurate mid-range suppression.
Advise leadership on terrain, fields of fire, and engagement ranges.
Train fellow CSOs on basic marksmanship and optics use.

Training Required

Successful completion of ITC
Completion of the DM Training Course
Familiarity with external ballistics, ranging, and optics adjustment
Ability to maintain high accuracy under time pressure

Skills & Capabilities

Precision marksmanship at 300–600m ranges.
Competence with optics, magnified sights, and ballistic reticles.
Ability to rapidly identify, range, and engage priority targets.
Understanding of wind, drop, and environmental effects in Arma 3.
Integration of precision fire into fireteam and element tactics.
Quick transition back to close-quarters role when required.

Equipment

The DM draws from the unit-approved arsenal and is additionally equipped with:

Semi-automatic designated marksman rifle (DMR) from the approved arsenal.
Optics capable of 4x–8x magnification.
Spotting aids (rangefinder, vector, or team-provided binoculars).
Standard CSO kit (ammunition, grenades, medical gear).
Mission-specific equipment as directed.

Training Course

Module 1 – Marksmanship Fundamentals

Principles of stable shooting positions (prone, kneeling, supported)
Zeroing and ballistic drop compensation
Trigger control and follow-through

Module 2 – Optics & Ranging

Use of magnified optics and reticles
Range estimation and confirmation with rangefinders
Adjusting for elevation and wind

Module 3 – Target Engagement

Engaging moving and priority targets
Rapid target acquisition drills
Transitioning between mid- and close-range engagements

Module 4 – Team Integration

Providing overwatch during patrols
Supporting CQB teams with precision suppression
Coordinating with Element Leaders for fields of fire

Graduation Criteria

Demonstrates consistent accuracy at 300–600m
Correctly ranges and engages targets under time constraints
Effectively supports a team exercise with overwatch and precision fire

Advancement

DMs may advance to:

Sniper/Recce billets (long-range and independent reconnaissance roles)
Marksmanship instructors within the unit
Senior roles as element-level shooting advisors

Summary

The Designated Marksman extends the effective range of the MSOT without sacrificing maneuverability. By delivering precise fire and overwatch, the DM ensures that Task Force Raven can dominate engagements from close quarters out to extended ranges.