Russia develops intelligent targets for training military snipers
The Russian Ground Forces are pushing the boundaries of military training with the introduction of cutting-edge technologies in long-range shooting. General Oleg Salyukov, the commander of the Russian Ground Forces, discussed these new weapons in December 2020.
Among the innovations is the modernized T-90M tank, which is currently undergoing trials. However, there has been no mention of the "Novator" target complex being involved in these weapon trials.
The "Novator" target complex, developed by the Central Research Institute of Precision Engineering (TsNIITochMash), is designed for training with firearms ranging from 5.45 to 12.7 mm. It enhances shooting training efficiency and fire correction accuracy by transmitting data on hits and deviations to a computer screen. The complex can detect not only hits but also misses, including near misses (within 3 mm), and maintains wireless communication between sensors and the operator up to 1 kilometer away. Plans have been mentioned to expand the "Novator" target complex's capabilities by adding remote control.
Recent advancements in long-range wireless shooting training systems focus heavily on simulation, sensor technology, and interactive feedback. One such innovation is the CenterMass Simulator, launched in August 2025. It is the first browser-based spotting simulator for long-range shooting, helping shooters and spotters train correction call skills before live firing through voice recognition and AI-driven shot adjustments.
Another innovation is the Tech Valley Technologies (TVT) 3-D Reactive Target Systems, available since mid-2025. These provide live-fire tactical shooting training with sensor-based 3D reactive targets that work with both lethal and non-lethal rounds.
Advanced shooting performance systems, such as the Mantis X10 and X3 Dry Fire Training Systems, are also making a significant impact. These systems employ sensors to analyze firearm movement and offer personalized coaching, aiding shooters to improve dry and live fire accuracy with multiple firearm types supported.
The Wind Zero LoRa-based Wind Meter System, launched by mid-2025, provides precision wind data for shooters, solving a critical challenge in long-range shooting accuracy.
Despite these advances, no verified information on the "Novator" complex or a new semi-automatic sniper rifle was found in the available 2025 sources. If these are newly announced or niche products, details may require direct sources from manufacturers or military/government releases.
In addition to the "Novator" target complex, General Oleg Salyukov also mentioned trials of a new semi-automatic sniper rifle caliber 7.62 mm. Other weapons being trialed include the updated "Berezhek" combat module for BMP-2, various types of ground robots, and new artillery systems. Air defense complexes are also part of the trials. These advancements underscore the Russian Ground Forces' commitment to staying at the forefront of military technology.
[1] CenterMass Simulator: https://www.centermasssimulator.com/ [2] Tech Valley Technologies (TVT) 3-D Reactive Target Systems: https://www.techvalleytech.com/products/3d-reactive-targets/ [3] Mantis X10 and X3 Dry Fire Training Systems: https://www.mantisx.com/ [4] Wind Zero LoRa-based Wind Meter System: https://www.windzero.com/ [5] Mantis X10 Elite: https://www.mantisx.com/products/mantisx-elite/
The "Novator" target complex, designed for enhancing shooting training efficiency, lacks involvement in the current weapon trials mentioned. It is equipped with advanced sensor technology that detects hits and misses, even near misses, enhancing fire correction accuracy.
Despite the introduction of numerous cutting-edge technologies in military training, such as the CenterMass Simulator and Tech Valley Technologies' 3-D Reactive Target Systems, no verified information on the "Novator" complex or a new semi-automatic sniper rifle was found in 2025 sources.
