DARPA's One Shot system provides a measured profile of downrange crosswind and range to target to help increase first round hit probability for snipers. (Photo Credit: DARPA)

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency is working on a high-tech sighting system to help snipers dramatically increase first round hit probability and accuracy. “One Shot XG” is a laser-equipped scope that will provide shooters with an offset aim point and measured profile of downrange crosswind and range to target.

“As a round goes downrange, the elevation and wind can impact the velocity and direction of the bullet,” said Robert McKinney, science and technology programs manager for the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab.

“One Shot XG” uses an invisible laser to measure range to target and cross-wind velocity to calculate and display a continuously updated and precise aim point. McKinney said the scope will help shooter’s counteract environmental factors that can impact a bullet’s trajectory and will provide increased accuracy on a target.

While the program has been in development since 2007, McKinney said DARPA has made significant improvements to the scope’s weight and overall laser capability during the last year.

The 2 lb. scope is designed to eliminate the need for a spotter/observer.

“One Shot XG will mount on the observation telescope for conventional two man operations and can provide an accurate solution to multiple shooters. The system is also small and robust enough to mount directly on the sniper rifle for one man or multi-shooter operations,” according to DARPA.

McKinney said the Warfighting Lab expects to have snipers test “One Shot XG” during a live-fire evaluation in January 2013. In December 2013, eight systems will be available for operational testing throughout the Corps.

“At that point, we’ll get a true user evaluation from Marines,” McKinney said.