In war, legends are often made in moments of extraordinary precision.
This week, one Ukrainian sniper has captured international attention with a shot that defies belief.
Ukrainian intelligence revealed monday, that one of its elite snipers had taken out a Russian soldier from an incredible distance of 6,788 feet — or over 1.2 miles.
The shot was made using a Sako M10 rifle and a .338 Lapua Magnum round, a caliber prized for its pinpoint accuracy and long-range capabilities, according to L'Independent.
Former Record by British Sniper
What makes this feat even more impressive is the harsh environment where it occurred. Winter in Ukraine is unforgiving.
The cold, muddy terrain and reduced visibility make conditions challenging for any sharpshooter. On top of that, the modern battlefield poses new dangers.
Drones constantly monitor positions, forcing snipers to adapt.
As the marksman himself, known only as “Lektor,” explained:
“In modern warfare, you don’t have the luxury of stepping out of the trench, lying on a hill, and taking your shot. Russian drones don’t allow you to use classic positions.”
Lektor isn’t new to extraordinary achievements. According to Ukrainian officials, he has already “taken out three dozen targets” over the course of the war.
His superiors praised the shot as a masterclass in skill and discipline — a rare feat on a battlefield where one mistake can cost a life.
To put the record into perspective, British sniper Craig Harrison made history in 2009 when he hit a target in Afghanistan at 8,120 feet — about 1.5 miles. That shot, however, was made in open, flat terrain. In Ukraine’s dense and hostile environment, such a shot is far more difficult.
This isn’t the first time Ukrainian snipers have made headlines. In November 2023, another Ukrainian shooter reportedly struck a target at 12,467 feet, or nearly 2.4 miles — the longest confirmed shot of its kind.
