Russian snipers are using Canadian Cadex rifles as shipments continue despite sanctions

In February 2024, the press service of the Russian Federation of Combat Sniping (FBS) posted video footage showing the work of the unit’s “new instruments» on the shooting range. In the video, FBS president Yaroslav Yakubov zeroes a Canadian Cadex Tremor 416 Barrett rifle. The rifle, its caliber, and the shooter are all visible in the clip.

Cadex is regarded as one of the world’s leading makers of long-range precision sniper rifles. The .416 Barrett caliber was developed at the request of the U.S. Navy’s Surface Warfare Centers in 2006. The muzzle energy of a cartridge in that caliber is roughly 11,800 joules — about 3.3 times that of the Dragunov sniper round — and the bullet retains supersonic speed to distances of up to 1,700 meters.

Yaroslav Yakubov is an officer in the 155th Naval Infantry Brigade of the Pacific Fleet, a unit favored by President Vladimir Putin. Yakubov fights in Ukraine under the call sign “Yary.” In 2022–23, he commanded a heavy sniper group at the front. SinceAugust 2023 he has chaired the Federation of Combat Sniping and led the combat training department of the 155th brigade.