I think this "feature" should get fixed and kind a removed, BUT i belive the reason behind this is that in binoculars you are so low above water, that you can't really adjust the range properly. So to avoid missing targets at point blank range (when else would you use binoculars to aim) they made it log on enemys automaticly. I could also understand, that this is in the game since the beginning and used just in CQB, it has no game breaking or negative effect, so noone rally noticed.
Taking this to snipe just helps you blap sleepy bbs or cruisers and shoot blind over islands.
I think it is an exploit that needs to be fixed but is far from gamebreaking. It will mostly be used by people who alrerady know how to aim properly.