13 facts you might not know about soldiering in the SAS Reserve…including the flexibility:
The SAS Reserve – part of the first echelon component of UK Special Forces – has troops operating globally, 24/7, across the spectrum of UKSF campaigns and highly specialised missions. And all alongside a civvy street career.
The force is made up of two regiments, 21 and 23 SAS – both of which date back to the Second World War and SAS founder David Stirling.
Its soldiers must be able to undertake intense and extended training demands, be willing to deploy overseas on a wide range of tasks, and commit to operations.
The role, according to SF bosses, offers “an unparalleled sense of purpose, a high degree of autonomy and unrivalled operational mastery”. Put simply, it’s damn exciting.
Unlike other reserve units, 21 and 23 SAS routinely deploy on their own missions as formed units, sub-units or small teams, too. This sets these soldiers apart, with more responsibility than others.
As a result of deploying as formed units, both regiments require attachments from various cap badges – including the Royal Signals, Intelligence Corps, Royal Logistic Corps, Adjutant General’s Corps, Royal Army Medical Service and Royal Army Chaplains’ Department. These roles are advertised on Serve (findforcesjobs.mod.gov.uk).
SF personnel enjoy more permissions, a higher level of training and state-of-the-art, specialist weapons and equipment in order to carry out their role.
The regiments operate with other nations’ special forces across temperate, desert, arctic and jungle environments.
The job might be busy, but it’s also flexible and can be done on your terms. An SAS Reserve trooper or commander is expected to mobilise operationally every three years. And in the UK, 60 reserve service days is the average contribution. In addition, UKSF employs many people on full-time reserve service.
To join, personnel must be phase two trained in another reserve or regular unit. They first undergo the UKSF briefing course and, if successful, are mobilised to undertake a six-month, full-time selection course which runs twice a year. Those who pass routinely progress straight onto mission specific training and operations.
Applications are accepted from men and women, across all three services.
Joiners must be no older than 43 and 364 days when they start selection.
Detachments are located across the UK, from southwest England to north Scotland.
FIND OUT MORE
21 and 23 SAS offers a Special Forces career on your terms, but with all the access to ops, kit, training
and pay that you would get in the regulars.
To find out more email [email protected]
