Arguably the most iconic infiltration sequence of events in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater takes place in the Groznyj Grad Weapons Lab. To proceed, Snake has to impersonate Major Ivan Raidenovitch Raikov, a high-ranking military officer who bears a resemblance to Raiden in MGS2. Sneaking into Raikov and taking over his uniform is required in order to penetrate deeper into Groznyj Grad without arousing suspicion.
This guide will walk you through where to find Raikov, how to get him to enter the open area, and how to acquire his disguise without wreaking havoc on the highly secured base.
Preparing for the Infiltration
The instant you reach the Weapons Lab: West Wing, equip the Scientist disguise from your Camouflage submenu. This will allow you to travel through the corridors of the lab without necessarily prompting everyone to get alarmed right away. Personnel and guards may still be suspicious of something strange going on, but the disguise is long enough to complete the plan without triggering anyone.
Luring Raikov from His Patrol
Raikov patrols on a predetermined route within the Weapons Lab, but the secret to catching him is to play on his curiosity.
From the West Wing entrance, go up the adjacent stairs and into the first door on the left. This opens onto a walkway that terminates in a locked door. Raikov will stop here periodically in the course of his patrol, and this is your initial opportunity to attract his attention.
Stand by the door and shove R2 (Make Noise) to knock. When it beeps, he’ll come out to check what’s happening. This momentarily distracts him from his patrol, leaving you with a moment to rig the second half of the trap.
Getting Him Into Position
Instead of confronting him directly, move across the hall into the cafeteria area. Here, make sure Raikov notices you—perform a Triangle/Y roll in front of his line of sight. This will heighten his suspicion and direct him straight into the cafeteria where Snake is hiding.
Now you’ll need to switch to a outfit that is armed, since the Scientist disguise limits you. Raikov will approach to greet you, and when he is close enough, you can take him out with CQC or by rapidly dropping him with a suppressed firearm.
Acquiring the Uniform
After knocking out Raikov, take him to the locker room. Hold down Square/X and strafe using the Left Stick in order to drag his body through the cafeteria and into the lockers. The instant you drop him inside, a cutscene will trigger. Snake will now be able to wear Raikov’s uniform and mask as part of the disguise.
With the disguise equipped, you’re free to roam Groznyj Grad as Major Raikov himself. Guards won’t stop you, and you’ll be able to progress to the next objective without suspicion.
Why the Disguise Matters
The Raikov disguise is not just a nice touch—it’s essential to entering Groznyj Grad and to Sokolov undetected. Without it, Snake would have to have running battles with waves of guards, which isn’t just dangerous but ruins the stealth-based pacing of the mission.
Putting on the disguise and mask makes you blend in perfectly, and for nostalgic fans, it’s a nod to Raiden’s appearance in Metal Gear Solid 2.
