In the wars of our time, a significant place belongs to special reconnaissance and sabotage operations conducted on enemy territory. For such operations in the armies of developed countries of the world there are special-purpose units and subunits. They are designed for covert penetration into the rear of the enemy, reconnaissance for a long time and, if necessary, the destruction of important military objects of the enemy, as well as the performance of other specific tasks. History, design, characteristics, experience of using VSS "Vintorez" and AS "Val."