This is an unofficial message board which exists for the benefit of men applying for SAS (R) Selection. We warmly welcome to this site those that are seeking guidance on fitness training and general pre-selection advice
21 and 23 SAS (R) were formed in 1947 and 1959 respectively, and together with the SBS(R) and 63(SAS) Signals Sqn have evolved into the Reserve (R) Component of the United Kingdom’s Special Forces (UKSF) Group.
UKSF (R) is to deliver a Tier 2 SF capability in order to provide depth to the UKSF group, conducting worldwide operations in support of the Government’s Foreign Security and Defence Policies.
The role of SAS (R) is to provide depth to the UKSF group through the provision of:Individual and collective augmentation to the regular component of UKSF. Standalone elements up to task group (Regimental) level focused on Support and Influence (S&I) operations to assist conflict stabilisation.
'When dealing with the preconceptions regarding Selection What isn't a myth is that each and every man who has passed the aptitude phase of selection has had to work harder than he ever had done before.What isn't a myth is that the successful volunteer had to focus himself, prepare and maintain his determination to succeed over a considerable length of time. It is determination and commitment that sets the SF soldier aside from his contemporaries'
SAS (R) Selection and training takes 12 months with two intakes per year, starting in February and September. The components of the course are as follows: APTITUDE- Candidates’ physical and mental endurance are tested, as well as their ability to navigate by day and night over arduous terrain. It culminates with ‘Endurance’ – a 64km march over the Brecon Beacons carrying over 60lbs. Aptitude comprises:9 x weekends of endurance training. 1 x week endurance training in the Brecon Beacons. 1 x week assessment (Test Week) in the Beacons.
STANDARD OPERATIONAL PROCEDURE (SOP) TRAINING Instruction in UKSF SOP’S and tactics comprises of:9 x weekends patrol SOP’s including surveillance and reconnaissance. 1 x week live firing including patrol contact drills and Tp offensive action. 1 x 9 day battle camp comprising: Live firing assessment. Field training exercise to test the skills learned throughout Selection. This culminates in Conduct after Capture (CAC). On successful completion of this training, ranks are badged as SAS(R) and are fit for appointment.
CONTINUATION TRAINING- Candidates who successfully complete Selection will enter a period of probation and must complete the following courses to be fit for mobilisation.Basic Parachute Course. SF Communications Course. Main Training Period.When fit for mobilisation ranks will maintain currency by completion of UKSF Military Annual training Tests (MATTs) and attendance on one or more Main Training Periods around the Globe. In addition, ranks who are fit for mobilisation may gain one or more of the following additional qualifications: Patrol Medics/ Enhanced Surveillance and Reconnaissance/ Languages/ Emergency Close Air Support/ Support Weapons/ Close Protection
