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BRITISH Special Air Service (SAS)
The Special Air Service (SAS) is the British Army's most renowned special forces unit. From the moment several black-clad figures appeared on the balconies of the Iranian Embassy in London in 1980, the Special Air Service became 'celebrities' both at home and oversees. Their motto, 'Who Dares Wins', has become part of British popular culture.
Special Air Service (SAS) Selection / How To Join
Many try to get into the Special Air Service regiment. Most of them fail. Out of an average intake of 125 candidates, the grueling
selection process will weed out all but 10. There is now a joint selection process, UKSF selection, for both the SAS and SBS.
Selection Phase 1 - Endurance
The first phase of selection is known as the endurance, fitness and navigation, or 'the hills' stage. This is the endurance portion of selection and not only tests a candidate's physical fitness, but also their mental stamina. To pass this phase, a high level of determination and self-reliance is vital.
The hills stage lasts 3 weeks and takes place in the Brecon Beacons and Black Hills of South Wales. Candidates have to carry an ever-increasingly-heavy bergen over a series of long timed hikes, navigating between checkpoints. No encouragement or criticism is provided by the supervising staff at the checkpoints. SAS Directing Staff (DS) are fully-badged members of the regiment and leave each candidate to their own devices. This can be a marked contrast from the selectee's experience in their parent units. They would be used to their instructors shouting constant instructions at them, along with encouragement and abuse. The demands of life in a special forces unit require each member to be self-motivated.
The endurance phase culminates with 'the long drag', a 40 mile trek carrying a 55lb bergen, that must be completed in under 24 hours.
Selection Phase 2 - Jungle Training
Those who have passed stage 1 have to then pass jungle training. Training takes place in Belize, in the heart of deep jungles. Candidates learn the basics of surviving and patrolling in the harsh conditions. SAS jungle patrols have to live for weeks behind enemy lines, in 4 man patrols, living on rations. Jungle training weeds out those who can't handle the discipline required to keep themselves and their kit in good condition whilst on long range patrol in difficult conditions. Again, there is a mental component being tested, not just a physical. Special Forces teams need men who can work under relentless pressure, in horrendous environments for weeks on end, without a lifeline back to home base.
Selection Phase 3 - Escape & Evasion & Tactical Questioning (TQ)
The small number of candidates who have made it through endurance and jungle training now enter the final phase of selection. The likelihood of a special operation going wrong behind enemy lines is quite high, given the risks involved. The SAS want soldiers who have the wherewithal and spirit required to escape and evade capture and resist interrogation.
For the escape and evasion (E&E) portion of the course, the candidates are given brief instructions on appropriate techniques. This may include talks from former POWs or special forces soldiers who have been in E&E situations in the real world.
Next, the candidates are let loose in the countryside, wearing World War 2 vintage coats with instructions to make their way to a series of waypoints without being captured by the hunter force of other soldiers. This portion lasts for 3 days after which, captured or not, all candidates report for TQ.
Tactical Questioning (TQ) tests the prospective SAS men's ability to resist interrogation. They are treated roughly by their interrogators, often made to stand in 'stress positions' for hours at a time, while disorientating white noise is blasted at them. When their turn for questioning comes, they must only answer with the so-called 'big 4' (name, rank, serial number and date of birth). All other questions must be answered with 'I'm sorry but I cannot answer that question.' Failure to do so results in failing the course. The questioners will use all sorts of tricks to try and get a reaction from the candidates. They may act friendly and try to get their subjects chatting; or they stand inches away from their subjects and scream unfavourable remarks about the sexual habits of their mothers. Female interrogators may laugh at the size of their subject's manhood. Of course, a real interrogation would be a lot more harsh and the subject would not know that they get to leave alive when it's all over. That said, days of interrogations and enduring the stress positions and white noise break down a man's sense of time and reality. The SAS are looking for men who can withstand such treatment long enough so that the effects of revealing any operational information they might have can be lessoned by HQ.
After all that...
The small number of men who make it through selection receive the coveted beige beret with the distinctive winged dagger insignia. As a newly badged member of the Special Air Service they can feel justly proud. They are not out of the woods, however, as they are now effectively on probation. As brand new members of the regiment, they will be watched closely by the DS as they enter continuation training. Many SAS soldiers are RTU'd (returned to unit) during training.
Special Air Service (SAS) Weapons
As one would expect of a special forces unit, aside from the range of standard weapons used by the UK military, the men of the 22nd Special Air Service (SAS) have access to a wider selection of firearms and other weapons than your average British soldier.
This section of the site takes a look at some of the weapons known to be used by the Special Air Service.
C8 carbine
The Regiment's primary assault carbine
SAS - Weapons - C8 Carbine
M16
M16 & variants
SAS - Weapons - M16 & Variants
HK G3
7.62mm battle rifle used by UKSF
more info : HK G3 SAS - Weapons - G3 Assault Rifle
HK33 / 53
5.56mm version of the G3
more info : HK33 / 53 SAS - Weapons - Hk33 and HK53
HK G36
Modern assault rifle made by Heckler & Koch
more info : HK G36 SAS - Weapons - HK G36
HK MP5
World famous counter-terrorist weapons - the MP5 sub machine gun
MAC 11
MAC-10 SMG
9mm SMG once used by the SAS in Northern Ireland
handguns
Handguns
Info on the Sig Sauer P226, Browning High Power and other pistols.
more info : Handguns
Welrod
World War-era 2 silenced pistol
more info : Welrod SAS - Weapons - Welrod
Remington 870
Shotgun often loaded with special breaching rounds
more info : Remington 870 SAS - Weapons - Remington 870 Shotgun
HK417
Medium ranger sniper rifle
more info : HK417http://www.eliteukforces.info/special-air-service/weapons/hk417.php
L96A1
The Regiment's long range sniper rifle
more info : L96A1 SAS - Weapons - L96 Sniper Rifle
AW 50
.50 cal anti-material rifle
more info : AW 50 SAS - Weapons - AW 50
Arwen Launcher
Arwen 37
Tear gas canister launcher used for counter-terrorism operations
more info : Arwen 37 SAS - Weapons - Arwen 37 Launcher
stun grenade
Flash-Bang
Stun Grenade devloped by the SAS CRW wing.
LAW
M72 LAW
Compact anti-tank rocket launcher SAS - Weapons - M72 LAW Rocket Launcher
Claymore
A portable anti-personnel mine used for defence and ambushes
more info : Claymore SAS - Weapons - Claymore Mine
M203
40mm grenade launcher fitted to SAS rifles
more info : M203 SAS - Weapons - M203
UGL
A modern grenade launcher system
more info : UGLhttp://www.eliteukforces.info/special-air-service/weapons/UGL.php
40mm grenade launcher fitted to SAS vehicles used in the 1991 Gulf War
more info : MK19 SAS - Weapons - MK19 Grenade Launcher
Shoulder-fired Surface-To_Air missile (SAM)
more info : Stinger SAS - Weapons - FIM-92 Stinger
As with mmany other special forces units, Special Air Service troopers will train with many of the world's military weapons, such as Kalashnikovs. These are not weapons that they would normally choose to take with them on operations but due to their ubiquity amongst other armed forces, it is important for an SAS operator to have working knowledge of them. Not only might they be tasked with training foreign militaries with their use, they may also lead such forces into combat, using their weapons. The SAS may also need to use the enemy's guns in emergency situations - ie such as in escape and evasion, when a trooper may need to take and use guns from fallen enemy soldiers. Then there are 'false-flag' operations, in which the SAS may purposely use firearms likely to be identified with another force in order to cover their own identity.
Special Air Service Operations
This section features some notable special operations of the SAS.
1980 - The Iranian Embassy Siege
The SAS's most public operation - one which set the standard in counter-terrorism.
more info : Iranian Embassy Siege Operation Nimrod
1981 - The Gambia - Hostage Rescue
A small team of SAS men are flown into Africa to rescue hostages and reverse a coup.
more info : The Gambia - Hostage Rescue SAS - Operations - Gambia
1982 - The Falklands - Raid On Pebble Island
In the first land attack of the war, D Squadron raid an Argentine airfield.
more info : Raid On Pebble Island SAS - Operations - Raid On Pebble Island
1987 - Northern Ireland - Ambush At Loughgall
In a controversial ambush, the SAS intercept an IRA active service unit as they attack a Police Station.
more info : Ambush At Loughgallhttp://www.eliteukforces.info/special-air-service/sas-operations/loughgall/
1987 - Peterhead Prison Siege
The SAS deploy to the scene of a Scottish Prison riot and end it with non-lethal but brutal force.
more info : Peterhead Prison Siege SAS - Operations - Peterhead Prison
1988 - Operation Flavius - Gibraltar
A controversial SAS operation against an IRA active service unit on the Rock Of Gibraltar.
more info : Operation Flavius SAS - Operation Flavius - Gibraltar
1991 - Victor Two
Echoing their World War 2 beginnings, the SAS take to the Iraqi desert to raid an Iraqi communications center.
more info : 1991 - Victor Two SAS - Operations - Victor Two
1997 - Counter Sniper Ops - Northern Ireland
A joint SAS/14 Company operation against an IRA sniper unit in South Armagh.
more info : Counter Sniper Ops SAS - Counter Sniper Operations - Northern Ireland
1997 - Operation Tango - Bosnia
The SAS operation to arrest 2 suspected war criminals.
more info : Operation Tango Operation Tango - SAS vs War Criminals
1998 - Operation Ensue - Serbia
The SAS capture a Serb war criminal from his hideout in Serbia.
more info : Operation Ensue Operation Ensue - SAS Arrest Stevan Todorovic
2000 - Operation Barras - Sierra Leone
When British soldiers are held hostange, the SAS lead a daring rescue mission into the heart of the African jungle.
more info : Operation Barras Operation Barras - SAS Rescue Mission Sierra Leone
2001 - Operation Trent - Afghanistan
A 2-squadron strike against a Taliban base in the Aghanistan mountains.
more info : Operation Trent Operation Trent
2005 - Operation Marlborough - Baghdad
An SAS sniper mission against insurgents in the middle of the Iraqi capital.
more info : Operation Marlborough SAS - Operation Marlborough
2005 - Basra Rescue
The SAS rescue 2 of their own held captive in Basra
more info : Basra Rescue SAS Operation - Basra Rescue
2006 - Hostage Rescue - Baghdad
A multi-national operation, led by the SAS, rescues 3 western peace activists held captive by Iraqi kidnappers.
more info : Baghdad Hostage Rescue SAS - Rescue Of Norman Kember
SAS History
The Special Air Service was born in the African desert during World War 2 and has since carried out many operations.
Special Air Service (SAS) - Organisation
The 22nd Special Air Service Regiment is organised in the following way:
Sabre Squadrons
22 SAS is divided into 4 main Squadrons - A,B, D & G. Each squadron is divided into 4 specialised troops and a command/HQ element.
HQ Element
Comprising officers and support staff:
At the head of each squadron is the OC (Officer Commander), usually an Army Major.
The 2nd in Command, or 2ic, with the rank of captain.
Operations Officer
Squadron Sergeant Major (SSM)
Squadron Quartermaster Sergeant (SQSM)
Staff Sergeant
Assorted armourers, clerical and logistics staff.
Troops
SAS troops comprise of 16 men, led by a captain. There are 4 troops within each squadron, each specialising in a different method of insertion. The troops are Air Troop, Boat Troop, Mountain Troop and Mobility Troop. Non-officers who pass SAS selection lose their previous rank and are assigned the rank of trooper.
Each squadron will rotate through different roles:
counter terrorism
one squadron is on alert to deal with any terrorist threat, at home or abroad.
squadron training
consisting of training exercises to teach new recruits the ropes and hone the skills of the veterans.
'strip duty'
on standby to respond to any emergency anywhere in the world
operational deployment
- an SAS squadron is currently depoyed to Iraq as 'Task Force Black', part of TF-88, a coalition task force set up to battle Al-Qaeda.
- during peacetime an SAS Squadron would often perform so-called 'team tasks' - training foreign militaries.
Other Elements
There are some smaller elements within the SAS.
Counter Revolutionary War Wing (CRW)
The CRW is a specialised wing created during the 70s to prepare the SAS for its counter terrorism and bodyguarding role. The CRW developed advanced pistol shooting techniques, explosive entry methods and room clearing drills for the Anti-terrorist role. The CRW is responsible for training whichever Squadron is on counter-terrorism duties.
Operations Research Cell.
The Operations Research Cell Research Unit usually comprises of a couple of experienced SAS men who's job it is to evaluate and develop new equipment, weapons and techniques. Working with MOD technicians and scientists, the cell ensure that the Regiment stay on the cutting edge. The cell came up with the concept of Stun Grenades during the 70s. These stun grenades, or 'Flash Bangs' have since been adopted by militaries and police forces around the world.
Northern Ireland Cell
During the Troubles, the SAS provided a troop for deployment to Northern Ireland.
Special Air Service (Reserve) - (SAS(R))
The 2 territorial SAS regiments, 21 and 23 SAS, who form Special Air Service Reserves (SAS(R)), are independent entities staffed by civilian volunteers (except for senior ranks who are from 22 SAS).
SAS(R) comprises:
21st Special Air Service Regiment
(21 SAS(R))
HQ Squadron based at the Duke Of York Barracks in London
A Squadron (Greater London)
C Squadron (East Anglia and Eastern Wessex)
E Squadron (Wales)
23rd Special Air Service Regiment
(23 SAS(R))
HQ Squadron (West Midlands)
B Squadron (Yorkshire and Humberside)
D Squadron (Scotland)
G Squadron (North and North West of England)
21 and 23 SAS reservists are given communications and signals intelligence (SIGINT) support by 63 (SAS) Signals Squadron, of the Royal Corps of Signals, also manned by volunteers.
SAS(R) Role And Operational History
The traditional role of 21 and 23 SAS is to carry out long range reconnaissance patrols for the regular UK Army (although these days the focus is on augmenting UKSF operations), freeing the regular SAS from recon tasks and onto direct actions. 23 SAS had previously been trained for combat search and rescue (CSAR) although it's now reported that role has been given to dedicated RAF Regiment units.
In the 1991 Gulf War, members of SAS(R) were used as battlefield casualty replacements for deployed 22 SAS units, namely landrover fighting columns from A and D Squadrons who were operating in the Iraqi Desert.
SAS Reservists deployed to the Balkans in the mid-90s. Members from 21 and 23 SAS formed a composite unit known as 'V Squadron' and were engaged in peace support operations.
In 2003, it was reported that 21 and 23 SAS had been operating in Afghanistan where they have carried out long range reconnaissance operations(1).
Another role that SAS reservists are thought to carry out is that of so-called 'hearts and minds' operations. On such missions the SAS give medical and other assistance to local forces and populations in a given theatre. In Helmand Province, Afghansitan, SAS(R) were reportdely deployed in a mentoring role, training and operating alongisde the Afghan National Police (ANP).
According to a April 2010 Telegraph report(2), SAS(R) first deployed to Afghansitan in 2003 where they helped to establish a communications network across the country. They also acted as liason between various local political factions, NATO and the new Afghan goverment. The same report mentions that SAS(R) were withdrawn from frontline duties in Afghanistan due to a lack of a clear role. Their mentoring role with the ANP was taken over by regular units. Some SAS Reservists were reported to be carrying out close protection duties for Foreign Office personnel in Kabul, Afghanistan's capital city.
The men of 21 and 23 SAS are typically issued with standard UK infantry weapons, ie the SA80, LMG, GPMG etc.
SAS Skills
A typical SAS patrol is just 4 men, each expert in at least one specialized skill and proficient in several others.
more info : SAS - 4 Man Patrol
Roles
The Regiment has a wide range of responsibilities, each requiring specific training and disciplines :
Counter-Terrorism (CT)
One Sabre Squadron is responsible for counter-terrorism duties, with a team on a constant state of alert. The 4 squadrons rotate through this role on a 6 monthly basis.
Intelligence Gathering
Sneaking into enemy territory to gather intelligence about troop strengths and movements is not as glamorous as leaping across embassy balconies but it is the bread and butter of special operations work. SAS recon teams must be able to remain hidden under the nose of the enemy for days on end, lurking concealed in dug out hides and on so-called 'hard routine' (no talking, no smoking, cooking etc). The Regiment trained to do this against the Russians but the techniques were used to great success in the barren hills of the Falklands and the hedgerows of Northern Ireland.
Forward Air Control
With the emphasis on air power in modern warfare comes a need for skilled forward air controllers : men on the ground calling in air strikes. In any S.A.S. team there's likely to be one trooper specially trained to communicate with attack aircraft and guide them in for a strike. Sometimes a laser designator will be used to 'paint' the target; other times the attack aircraft will be guided in verbally. The S.A.S. called in air strikes against Scud launchers during the 1991 Gulf War, against Serbian tanks in Bosnia in the 90s and against Taliban positions in the mountains of Afghanistan in 2001.
Target Attacks - Behind the lines sabotage
The Special Air Service regiment began its life in World War 2, carrying out daring sabotage missions behind German lines, first in North Africa and then in the European theatre. The modern day S.A.S. keeps up the tradition and are experts at infiltration deep into enemy territory, destroying fuel dumps, communication lines, bridges and railway lines.
Close Protection
The Regiment are masters at close protection duties (CP) - body guarding to the layman - having developed many of the protocols themselves. VIP protection is the responsibility of the Counter Revolutionary War (CWR) wing. Nowadays much of UK Military CP work is being done by specialised military police units.
Training Foreign Militaries
Over the years, the Special Air Service has shared their expertise with friendly nations, training their own special forces and bodyguards in the dark arts. Known as 'team jobs' within the S.A.S., the UK government gets both political and financial benefits from such arrangements due in part to the reputation of the regiment.
Special Air Service (SAS) Training
Having passed the grueling selection process and earned their SAS wings, the SAS newbie enters a training phase that, in some respects, never ends. SAS troopers are constantly learning new skills and refining those already learned.
Part 1 - Counter-Terrorism Training
One squadron (A,B,D or G) is designated for counter-terrorism (CT) duties. The role is rotated through the squadrons every 6 months. After getting up to speed with CT techniques, the active squadron splits into two sections. One carries out training at the various SAS training facilities and is on standby for immediate response to a terrorist incident. The other takes part in exercises and is on 24 hour warning to respond.
The Killing House
The SAS do much of their CT training in a specially constructed house at SAS Headquarters, called the 'Killing House'. Featuring movable partitions, rubber-coated walls to absorb live rounds and extractor fans to clear out the gun fumes, the killing house can be configured to emulate various scenarios. The Killing House is used to hone the SAS trooper's Close Quarter Battle (CQB) skills. CQB techniques are practised over and over until the various drills become second nature. Room entry techniques are perfected. The SAS troopers will learn how to deploy stun grenades, tear gas, door and wall breaching explosives, shotguns loaded with hinge-busting Hattan rounds - all designed to give the assault teams the edge in siege busting operations. Once the CT teams have devloped the disciplines requried, they will begin to train with live ammunition. Members of the assault teams will take turns at playing hostages whilst their colleagues burst into the room. firing live rounds into targets sometimes very close to them. The Killing House is wired with cctv cameras so the assaults can be watched back and analysed.
The Killing House is also used by the Counter Revolutionary Wing to train for various close protection scenarios.
Building Assaults
When they need to practise getting into buildings, the SAS will use specially built buildings on which to play. Training includes :
abseiling down the side of buildings from the roof or onto the rooftops from helicopters
gaining access via ladders - either carried on foot or attached to the roofs of Range Rovers
blowing access holes into the side of buildings using explosives
The SAS use a multi-story building nicknamed 'the Embassy' to practise assaults. On at least one occassion, the SAS have practised assaults on condemned buildings, including blocks of flats.
Tubular Assaults
Terrorists have been known to take hostages aboard trains, buses and coaches. The SAS train constantly in assaulting such targets. SAS training facilities include a stretch of railway tracks complete with railway carriages for which to practise storming hijacked trains.
Aircraft Assaults
The SAS train for assaulting hijacked aircraft using a mock up of a passnger airliner at the training ground at Pontrilas, Herefordshire (see image below). The Killing House can also be configured to emulate the interior of airliners. Frequent exercises involving real-world aircraft (usually provided by British Airways) take place, complete with role-playing terrorists and hostages.
264 (SAS) Signals Squadron
264 (SAS) Squadron provides dedicated communications support to 22 Special Air Service.
Often deploying alongside the Sabre Squadrons, these signallers ensure that the SAS can communicate in a secure and reliable fashion not just within the Squadron's area of operations but also with Hereford, their home base.
The men of 264 (SAS) Signals are part of the Royal Corps of Signals and have not gone through SAS selection, although they do have to pass the Special Forces Communicator (SFC) selection course. 264 Signals are now under the umbrella of 18 UKSF Signals Regiment.
Signallers from 264 (SAS) Squadron are currently supporting Task Force Black, the SAS squadron operating in Iraq.
R Troop
R troop is a territorial unit which augments 264 Signals. The 50 men of R Troop are the signals squadrons equivalent of L-Detachment, who augment 22 SAS. Staffed by civilian volunteers, R troop provide extra manpower and casualty replacements for 264.
TASK FORCE BLACK
Following the toppling of Saddam Hussein's regime in Iraq, 2003 it has been reported that an SAS Squadron has been assigned to a joint US/UK group of Special Operations units operating in the country, known previously as Task Force 145 (TF-145).
Now reportedly renamed to TF-88, this cream of Western Special Operators consists of several elements:
TF Black - - made up of an SAS sabre squadron, supported by a Company of SFSG (TF Maroon). Some SBS operators are thought to be attached to TF Black.
TF Blue - US Navy SEALs from DEVGRU (Seal Team 6)
TF Green - 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment - or 'Delta Force'
TF Orange - signals intelligence gathers from the ISA
Mark Urban's account of the SAS's secret war in Iraq, focusing on Task Force Black, caused controversy when Director Special Forces (DSF) refused to approve its publication.
more info on the book (amazon.co.uk)
**to be published on Feb 18th 2010**
Elements of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR), US 24th Special Tactics Squadron, aircraft from the UK's 7 and 47 RAF Squadrons, along with a RAF Puma flight, provide specialised air support for TF-88. American military intelligence operatives alongside the UK's Joint Support Group, elements of MI6 and the SRR are believed to be attached to the Task Force to provide intelligence support. 18 UKSF Signals and their US equivalents (Task Force Orange) provide signals intelligence (SIGINT) capabilties to the task force.
The primary role of TF-88 is to hunt down senior members of Al-Qaeda operating in Iraq. To this end, the Task Force has had several successes including the killing of Al-Zarqawi. In response to a spate of kidnappings involving Westerners, TF-88's remit expanded to include countering this threat.
TF-Black is based in headquarters known as 'the Station', within Baghdad's green zone.
**update ** it is believed that the SAS is no longer operating in Iraq has been redeployed to Afghanistan.
Task Force Black Operations
In July 2003, an SAS team performed a close target reconnaisance of a residence in Mosul, thought to contain Uday and Qusay Hussein, Saddam's sons. British commanders pushed for the SAS to raid the house but are denied. A combined force of US Delta Force and the 101st Airborne eventually attacked the building and killed Uday and Qusay.
Operation Marlborogh
In July 2005 an SAS sniper team neutralized an insurgent bomb squad before they could reach their targets in the city.
In March 2006, in a bloodless operation, the SAS rescued British activist, Norman Kember, and 2 Canadians who had been kidnapped in Baghdad
more info: SAS rescue Norman Kember
September 5th, 2007 - A 30-man SAS team assaulted a house that intel had pinpointed as the location of a senior Al-Qaeda figure. The mission was a success but sadly it costs the life of one of the SAS assaulters.
more info : SAS soldier killed in mass raid on Al-Qaeda chief
(Times Online report)
March 26th, 2008 - 1 SAS soldier from Task Force Black is killed during an operation against insurgents in a town in Northern Iraq.
more info : 'Ambush' that left SAS trooper dead
(BBC News Report)
As with its other commitments such as counter-terrorism and training, the SAS rotates a squadron into Task Force Black on a 6-monthly basis.
SAS DESERT STORM AIRSTRIKE
SAS - Airstrike - eliteukforces.info - YouTube
This footage was filmed through the FLIR on a US F15E fighter/bomber during the 1991 Persian Gulf War. The SAS fighting column of Land Rovers are deep behind enemy lines in Iraq's western desert. The Iraqi scud convoy has already been attacked by the SAS and the launcher vehicle has been set alight by a Milan anti-tank missile. After a protracted engagement, the SAS called in the bombers.
Make sure to enable your speakers for this one as it includes a rare recording of the SAS ground controllers - one calls in the coordinates and later you hear a second SAS controller identifying his own forces to avoid becoming a target for the bombers.
Things of interest in this clip:
The call sign 'Delta-2-1' indicates that this SAS column was from D Squadron.
The 2nd SAS voice identifies himself as 'Highlight', the codeword for UK special forces, as used during the war..
The co-ordinates given out for the SAS's location can be viewed via Google Earth:
click here to download the KMZ file for this SAS engagement
if you don't have Google Earth, get it here
SAS Photos
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The Special Air Service (SAS) is the British Army's most renowned special forces unit. From the moment several black-clad figures appeared on the balconies of the Iranian Embassy in London in 1980, the Special Air Service became 'celebrities' both at home and oversees. Their motto, 'Who Dares Wins', has become part of British popular culture.
Special Air Service (SAS) Selection / How To Join
Many try to get into the Special Air Service regiment. Most of them fail. Out of an average intake of 125 candidates, the grueling
selection process will weed out all but 10. There is now a joint selection process, UKSF selection, for both the SAS and SBS.
Selection Phase 1 - Endurance
The first phase of selection is known as the endurance, fitness and navigation, or 'the hills' stage. This is the endurance portion of selection and not only tests a candidate's physical fitness, but also their mental stamina. To pass this phase, a high level of determination and self-reliance is vital.
The hills stage lasts 3 weeks and takes place in the Brecon Beacons and Black Hills of South Wales. Candidates have to carry an ever-increasingly-heavy bergen over a series of long timed hikes, navigating between checkpoints. No encouragement or criticism is provided by the supervising staff at the checkpoints. SAS Directing Staff (DS) are fully-badged members of the regiment and leave each candidate to their own devices. This can be a marked contrast from the selectee's experience in their parent units. They would be used to their instructors shouting constant instructions at them, along with encouragement and abuse. The demands of life in a special forces unit require each member to be self-motivated.
The endurance phase culminates with 'the long drag', a 40 mile trek carrying a 55lb bergen, that must be completed in under 24 hours.
Selection Phase 2 - Jungle Training
Those who have passed stage 1 have to then pass jungle training. Training takes place in Belize, in the heart of deep jungles. Candidates learn the basics of surviving and patrolling in the harsh conditions. SAS jungle patrols have to live for weeks behind enemy lines, in 4 man patrols, living on rations. Jungle training weeds out those who can't handle the discipline required to keep themselves and their kit in good condition whilst on long range patrol in difficult conditions. Again, there is a mental component being tested, not just a physical. Special Forces teams need men who can work under relentless pressure, in horrendous environments for weeks on end, without a lifeline back to home base.
Selection Phase 3 - Escape & Evasion & Tactical Questioning (TQ)
The small number of candidates who have made it through endurance and jungle training now enter the final phase of selection. The likelihood of a special operation going wrong behind enemy lines is quite high, given the risks involved. The SAS want soldiers who have the wherewithal and spirit required to escape and evade capture and resist interrogation.
For the escape and evasion (E&E) portion of the course, the candidates are given brief instructions on appropriate techniques. This may include talks from former POWs or special forces soldiers who have been in E&E situations in the real world.
Next, the candidates are let loose in the countryside, wearing World War 2 vintage coats with instructions to make their way to a series of waypoints without being captured by the hunter force of other soldiers. This portion lasts for 3 days after which, captured or not, all candidates report for TQ.
Tactical Questioning (TQ) tests the prospective SAS men's ability to resist interrogation. They are treated roughly by their interrogators, often made to stand in 'stress positions' for hours at a time, while disorientating white noise is blasted at them. When their turn for questioning comes, they must only answer with the so-called 'big 4' (name, rank, serial number and date of birth). All other questions must be answered with 'I'm sorry but I cannot answer that question.' Failure to do so results in failing the course. The questioners will use all sorts of tricks to try and get a reaction from the candidates. They may act friendly and try to get their subjects chatting; or they stand inches away from their subjects and scream unfavourable remarks about the sexual habits of their mothers. Female interrogators may laugh at the size of their subject's manhood. Of course, a real interrogation would be a lot more harsh and the subject would not know that they get to leave alive when it's all over. That said, days of interrogations and enduring the stress positions and white noise break down a man's sense of time and reality. The SAS are looking for men who can withstand such treatment long enough so that the effects of revealing any operational information they might have can be lessoned by HQ.
After all that...
The small number of men who make it through selection receive the coveted beige beret with the distinctive winged dagger insignia. As a newly badged member of the Special Air Service they can feel justly proud. They are not out of the woods, however, as they are now effectively on probation. As brand new members of the regiment, they will be watched closely by the DS as they enter continuation training. Many SAS soldiers are RTU'd (returned to unit) during training.
Special Air Service (SAS) Weapons
As one would expect of a special forces unit, aside from the range of standard weapons used by the UK military, the men of the 22nd Special Air Service (SAS) have access to a wider selection of firearms and other weapons than your average British soldier.
This section of the site takes a look at some of the weapons known to be used by the Special Air Service.
C8 carbine
The Regiment's primary assault carbine
SAS - Weapons - C8 Carbine
M16
M16 & variants
SAS - Weapons - M16 & Variants
HK G3
7.62mm battle rifle used by UKSF
more info : HK G3 SAS - Weapons - G3 Assault Rifle
HK33 / 53
5.56mm version of the G3
more info : HK33 / 53 SAS - Weapons - Hk33 and HK53
HK G36
Modern assault rifle made by Heckler & Koch
more info : HK G36 SAS - Weapons - HK G36
HK MP5
World famous counter-terrorist weapons - the MP5 sub machine gun
MAC 11
MAC-10 SMG
9mm SMG once used by the SAS in Northern Ireland
handguns
Handguns
Info on the Sig Sauer P226, Browning High Power and other pistols.
more info : Handguns
Welrod
World War-era 2 silenced pistol
more info : Welrod SAS - Weapons - Welrod
Remington 870
Shotgun often loaded with special breaching rounds
more info : Remington 870 SAS - Weapons - Remington 870 Shotgun
HK417
Medium ranger sniper rifle
more info : HK417http://www.eliteukforces.info/special-air-service/weapons/hk417.php
L96A1
The Regiment's long range sniper rifle
more info : L96A1 SAS - Weapons - L96 Sniper Rifle
AW 50
.50 cal anti-material rifle
more info : AW 50 SAS - Weapons - AW 50
Arwen Launcher
Arwen 37
Tear gas canister launcher used for counter-terrorism operations
more info : Arwen 37 SAS - Weapons - Arwen 37 Launcher
stun grenade
Flash-Bang
Stun Grenade devloped by the SAS CRW wing.
LAW
M72 LAW
Compact anti-tank rocket launcher SAS - Weapons - M72 LAW Rocket Launcher
Claymore
A portable anti-personnel mine used for defence and ambushes
more info : Claymore SAS - Weapons - Claymore Mine
M203
40mm grenade launcher fitted to SAS rifles
more info : M203 SAS - Weapons - M203
UGL
A modern grenade launcher system
more info : UGLhttp://www.eliteukforces.info/special-air-service/weapons/UGL.php
40mm grenade launcher fitted to SAS vehicles used in the 1991 Gulf War
more info : MK19 SAS - Weapons - MK19 Grenade Launcher
Shoulder-fired Surface-To_Air missile (SAM)
more info : Stinger SAS - Weapons - FIM-92 Stinger
As with mmany other special forces units, Special Air Service troopers will train with many of the world's military weapons, such as Kalashnikovs. These are not weapons that they would normally choose to take with them on operations but due to their ubiquity amongst other armed forces, it is important for an SAS operator to have working knowledge of them. Not only might they be tasked with training foreign militaries with their use, they may also lead such forces into combat, using their weapons. The SAS may also need to use the enemy's guns in emergency situations - ie such as in escape and evasion, when a trooper may need to take and use guns from fallen enemy soldiers. Then there are 'false-flag' operations, in which the SAS may purposely use firearms likely to be identified with another force in order to cover their own identity.
Special Air Service Operations
This section features some notable special operations of the SAS.
1980 - The Iranian Embassy Siege
The SAS's most public operation - one which set the standard in counter-terrorism.
more info : Iranian Embassy Siege Operation Nimrod
1981 - The Gambia - Hostage Rescue
A small team of SAS men are flown into Africa to rescue hostages and reverse a coup.
more info : The Gambia - Hostage Rescue SAS - Operations - Gambia
1982 - The Falklands - Raid On Pebble Island
In the first land attack of the war, D Squadron raid an Argentine airfield.
more info : Raid On Pebble Island SAS - Operations - Raid On Pebble Island
1987 - Northern Ireland - Ambush At Loughgall
In a controversial ambush, the SAS intercept an IRA active service unit as they attack a Police Station.
more info : Ambush At Loughgallhttp://www.eliteukforces.info/special-air-service/sas-operations/loughgall/
1987 - Peterhead Prison Siege
The SAS deploy to the scene of a Scottish Prison riot and end it with non-lethal but brutal force.
more info : Peterhead Prison Siege SAS - Operations - Peterhead Prison
1988 - Operation Flavius - Gibraltar
A controversial SAS operation against an IRA active service unit on the Rock Of Gibraltar.
more info : Operation Flavius SAS - Operation Flavius - Gibraltar
1991 - Victor Two
Echoing their World War 2 beginnings, the SAS take to the Iraqi desert to raid an Iraqi communications center.
more info : 1991 - Victor Two SAS - Operations - Victor Two
1997 - Counter Sniper Ops - Northern Ireland
A joint SAS/14 Company operation against an IRA sniper unit in South Armagh.
more info : Counter Sniper Ops SAS - Counter Sniper Operations - Northern Ireland
1997 - Operation Tango - Bosnia
The SAS operation to arrest 2 suspected war criminals.
more info : Operation Tango Operation Tango - SAS vs War Criminals
1998 - Operation Ensue - Serbia
The SAS capture a Serb war criminal from his hideout in Serbia.
more info : Operation Ensue Operation Ensue - SAS Arrest Stevan Todorovic
2000 - Operation Barras - Sierra Leone
When British soldiers are held hostange, the SAS lead a daring rescue mission into the heart of the African jungle.
more info : Operation Barras Operation Barras - SAS Rescue Mission Sierra Leone
2001 - Operation Trent - Afghanistan
A 2-squadron strike against a Taliban base in the Aghanistan mountains.
more info : Operation Trent Operation Trent
2005 - Operation Marlborough - Baghdad
An SAS sniper mission against insurgents in the middle of the Iraqi capital.
more info : Operation Marlborough SAS - Operation Marlborough
2005 - Basra Rescue
The SAS rescue 2 of their own held captive in Basra
more info : Basra Rescue SAS Operation - Basra Rescue
2006 - Hostage Rescue - Baghdad
A multi-national operation, led by the SAS, rescues 3 western peace activists held captive by Iraqi kidnappers.
more info : Baghdad Hostage Rescue SAS - Rescue Of Norman Kember
SAS History
The Special Air Service was born in the African desert during World War 2 and has since carried out many operations.
Special Air Service (SAS) - Organisation
The 22nd Special Air Service Regiment is organised in the following way:
Sabre Squadrons
22 SAS is divided into 4 main Squadrons - A,B, D & G. Each squadron is divided into 4 specialised troops and a command/HQ element.
HQ Element
Comprising officers and support staff:
At the head of each squadron is the OC (Officer Commander), usually an Army Major.
The 2nd in Command, or 2ic, with the rank of captain.
Operations Officer
Squadron Sergeant Major (SSM)
Squadron Quartermaster Sergeant (SQSM)
Staff Sergeant
Assorted armourers, clerical and logistics staff.
Troops
SAS troops comprise of 16 men, led by a captain. There are 4 troops within each squadron, each specialising in a different method of insertion. The troops are Air Troop, Boat Troop, Mountain Troop and Mobility Troop. Non-officers who pass SAS selection lose their previous rank and are assigned the rank of trooper.
Each squadron will rotate through different roles:
counter terrorism
one squadron is on alert to deal with any terrorist threat, at home or abroad.
squadron training
consisting of training exercises to teach new recruits the ropes and hone the skills of the veterans.
'strip duty'
on standby to respond to any emergency anywhere in the world
operational deployment
- an SAS squadron is currently depoyed to Iraq as 'Task Force Black', part of TF-88, a coalition task force set up to battle Al-Qaeda.
- during peacetime an SAS Squadron would often perform so-called 'team tasks' - training foreign militaries.
Other Elements
There are some smaller elements within the SAS.
Counter Revolutionary War Wing (CRW)
The CRW is a specialised wing created during the 70s to prepare the SAS for its counter terrorism and bodyguarding role. The CRW developed advanced pistol shooting techniques, explosive entry methods and room clearing drills for the Anti-terrorist role. The CRW is responsible for training whichever Squadron is on counter-terrorism duties.
Operations Research Cell.
The Operations Research Cell Research Unit usually comprises of a couple of experienced SAS men who's job it is to evaluate and develop new equipment, weapons and techniques. Working with MOD technicians and scientists, the cell ensure that the Regiment stay on the cutting edge. The cell came up with the concept of Stun Grenades during the 70s. These stun grenades, or 'Flash Bangs' have since been adopted by militaries and police forces around the world.
Northern Ireland Cell
During the Troubles, the SAS provided a troop for deployment to Northern Ireland.
Special Air Service (Reserve) - (SAS(R))
The 2 territorial SAS regiments, 21 and 23 SAS, who form Special Air Service Reserves (SAS(R)), are independent entities staffed by civilian volunteers (except for senior ranks who are from 22 SAS).
SAS(R) comprises:
21st Special Air Service Regiment
(21 SAS(R))
HQ Squadron based at the Duke Of York Barracks in London
A Squadron (Greater London)
C Squadron (East Anglia and Eastern Wessex)
E Squadron (Wales)
23rd Special Air Service Regiment
(23 SAS(R))
HQ Squadron (West Midlands)
B Squadron (Yorkshire and Humberside)
D Squadron (Scotland)
G Squadron (North and North West of England)
21 and 23 SAS reservists are given communications and signals intelligence (SIGINT) support by 63 (SAS) Signals Squadron, of the Royal Corps of Signals, also manned by volunteers.
SAS(R) Role And Operational History
The traditional role of 21 and 23 SAS is to carry out long range reconnaissance patrols for the regular UK Army (although these days the focus is on augmenting UKSF operations), freeing the regular SAS from recon tasks and onto direct actions. 23 SAS had previously been trained for combat search and rescue (CSAR) although it's now reported that role has been given to dedicated RAF Regiment units.
In the 1991 Gulf War, members of SAS(R) were used as battlefield casualty replacements for deployed 22 SAS units, namely landrover fighting columns from A and D Squadrons who were operating in the Iraqi Desert.
SAS Reservists deployed to the Balkans in the mid-90s. Members from 21 and 23 SAS formed a composite unit known as 'V Squadron' and were engaged in peace support operations.
In 2003, it was reported that 21 and 23 SAS had been operating in Afghanistan where they have carried out long range reconnaissance operations(1).
Another role that SAS reservists are thought to carry out is that of so-called 'hearts and minds' operations. On such missions the SAS give medical and other assistance to local forces and populations in a given theatre. In Helmand Province, Afghansitan, SAS(R) were reportdely deployed in a mentoring role, training and operating alongisde the Afghan National Police (ANP).
According to a April 2010 Telegraph report(2), SAS(R) first deployed to Afghansitan in 2003 where they helped to establish a communications network across the country. They also acted as liason between various local political factions, NATO and the new Afghan goverment. The same report mentions that SAS(R) were withdrawn from frontline duties in Afghanistan due to a lack of a clear role. Their mentoring role with the ANP was taken over by regular units. Some SAS Reservists were reported to be carrying out close protection duties for Foreign Office personnel in Kabul, Afghanistan's capital city.
The men of 21 and 23 SAS are typically issued with standard UK infantry weapons, ie the SA80, LMG, GPMG etc.
SAS Skills
A typical SAS patrol is just 4 men, each expert in at least one specialized skill and proficient in several others.
more info : SAS - 4 Man Patrol
Roles
The Regiment has a wide range of responsibilities, each requiring specific training and disciplines :
Counter-Terrorism (CT)
One Sabre Squadron is responsible for counter-terrorism duties, with a team on a constant state of alert. The 4 squadrons rotate through this role on a 6 monthly basis.
Intelligence Gathering
Sneaking into enemy territory to gather intelligence about troop strengths and movements is not as glamorous as leaping across embassy balconies but it is the bread and butter of special operations work. SAS recon teams must be able to remain hidden under the nose of the enemy for days on end, lurking concealed in dug out hides and on so-called 'hard routine' (no talking, no smoking, cooking etc). The Regiment trained to do this against the Russians but the techniques were used to great success in the barren hills of the Falklands and the hedgerows of Northern Ireland.
Forward Air Control
With the emphasis on air power in modern warfare comes a need for skilled forward air controllers : men on the ground calling in air strikes. In any S.A.S. team there's likely to be one trooper specially trained to communicate with attack aircraft and guide them in for a strike. Sometimes a laser designator will be used to 'paint' the target; other times the attack aircraft will be guided in verbally. The S.A.S. called in air strikes against Scud launchers during the 1991 Gulf War, against Serbian tanks in Bosnia in the 90s and against Taliban positions in the mountains of Afghanistan in 2001.
Target Attacks - Behind the lines sabotage
The Special Air Service regiment began its life in World War 2, carrying out daring sabotage missions behind German lines, first in North Africa and then in the European theatre. The modern day S.A.S. keeps up the tradition and are experts at infiltration deep into enemy territory, destroying fuel dumps, communication lines, bridges and railway lines.
Close Protection
The Regiment are masters at close protection duties (CP) - body guarding to the layman - having developed many of the protocols themselves. VIP protection is the responsibility of the Counter Revolutionary War (CWR) wing. Nowadays much of UK Military CP work is being done by specialised military police units.
Training Foreign Militaries
Over the years, the Special Air Service has shared their expertise with friendly nations, training their own special forces and bodyguards in the dark arts. Known as 'team jobs' within the S.A.S., the UK government gets both political and financial benefits from such arrangements due in part to the reputation of the regiment.
Special Air Service (SAS) Training
Having passed the grueling selection process and earned their SAS wings, the SAS newbie enters a training phase that, in some respects, never ends. SAS troopers are constantly learning new skills and refining those already learned.
Part 1 - Counter-Terrorism Training
One squadron (A,B,D or G) is designated for counter-terrorism (CT) duties. The role is rotated through the squadrons every 6 months. After getting up to speed with CT techniques, the active squadron splits into two sections. One carries out training at the various SAS training facilities and is on standby for immediate response to a terrorist incident. The other takes part in exercises and is on 24 hour warning to respond.
The Killing House
The SAS do much of their CT training in a specially constructed house at SAS Headquarters, called the 'Killing House'. Featuring movable partitions, rubber-coated walls to absorb live rounds and extractor fans to clear out the gun fumes, the killing house can be configured to emulate various scenarios. The Killing House is used to hone the SAS trooper's Close Quarter Battle (CQB) skills. CQB techniques are practised over and over until the various drills become second nature. Room entry techniques are perfected. The SAS troopers will learn how to deploy stun grenades, tear gas, door and wall breaching explosives, shotguns loaded with hinge-busting Hattan rounds - all designed to give the assault teams the edge in siege busting operations. Once the CT teams have devloped the disciplines requried, they will begin to train with live ammunition. Members of the assault teams will take turns at playing hostages whilst their colleagues burst into the room. firing live rounds into targets sometimes very close to them. The Killing House is wired with cctv cameras so the assaults can be watched back and analysed.
The Killing House is also used by the Counter Revolutionary Wing to train for various close protection scenarios.
Building Assaults
When they need to practise getting into buildings, the SAS will use specially built buildings on which to play. Training includes :
abseiling down the side of buildings from the roof or onto the rooftops from helicopters
gaining access via ladders - either carried on foot or attached to the roofs of Range Rovers
blowing access holes into the side of buildings using explosives
The SAS use a multi-story building nicknamed 'the Embassy' to practise assaults. On at least one occassion, the SAS have practised assaults on condemned buildings, including blocks of flats.
Tubular Assaults
Terrorists have been known to take hostages aboard trains, buses and coaches. The SAS train constantly in assaulting such targets. SAS training facilities include a stretch of railway tracks complete with railway carriages for which to practise storming hijacked trains.
Aircraft Assaults
The SAS train for assaulting hijacked aircraft using a mock up of a passnger airliner at the training ground at Pontrilas, Herefordshire (see image below). The Killing House can also be configured to emulate the interior of airliners. Frequent exercises involving real-world aircraft (usually provided by British Airways) take place, complete with role-playing terrorists and hostages.
264 (SAS) Signals Squadron
264 (SAS) Squadron provides dedicated communications support to 22 Special Air Service.
Often deploying alongside the Sabre Squadrons, these signallers ensure that the SAS can communicate in a secure and reliable fashion not just within the Squadron's area of operations but also with Hereford, their home base.
The men of 264 (SAS) Signals are part of the Royal Corps of Signals and have not gone through SAS selection, although they do have to pass the Special Forces Communicator (SFC) selection course. 264 Signals are now under the umbrella of 18 UKSF Signals Regiment.
Signallers from 264 (SAS) Squadron are currently supporting Task Force Black, the SAS squadron operating in Iraq.
R Troop
R troop is a territorial unit which augments 264 Signals. The 50 men of R Troop are the signals squadrons equivalent of L-Detachment, who augment 22 SAS. Staffed by civilian volunteers, R troop provide extra manpower and casualty replacements for 264.
TASK FORCE BLACK
Following the toppling of Saddam Hussein's regime in Iraq, 2003 it has been reported that an SAS Squadron has been assigned to a joint US/UK group of Special Operations units operating in the country, known previously as Task Force 145 (TF-145).
Now reportedly renamed to TF-88, this cream of Western Special Operators consists of several elements:
TF Black - - made up of an SAS sabre squadron, supported by a Company of SFSG (TF Maroon). Some SBS operators are thought to be attached to TF Black.
TF Blue - US Navy SEALs from DEVGRU (Seal Team 6)
TF Green - 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment - or 'Delta Force'
TF Orange - signals intelligence gathers from the ISA
Mark Urban's account of the SAS's secret war in Iraq, focusing on Task Force Black, caused controversy when Director Special Forces (DSF) refused to approve its publication.
more info on the book (amazon.co.uk)
**to be published on Feb 18th 2010**
Elements of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR), US 24th Special Tactics Squadron, aircraft from the UK's 7 and 47 RAF Squadrons, along with a RAF Puma flight, provide specialised air support for TF-88. American military intelligence operatives alongside the UK's Joint Support Group, elements of MI6 and the SRR are believed to be attached to the Task Force to provide intelligence support. 18 UKSF Signals and their US equivalents (Task Force Orange) provide signals intelligence (SIGINT) capabilties to the task force.
The primary role of TF-88 is to hunt down senior members of Al-Qaeda operating in Iraq. To this end, the Task Force has had several successes including the killing of Al-Zarqawi. In response to a spate of kidnappings involving Westerners, TF-88's remit expanded to include countering this threat.
TF-Black is based in headquarters known as 'the Station', within Baghdad's green zone.
**update ** it is believed that the SAS is no longer operating in Iraq has been redeployed to Afghanistan.
Task Force Black Operations
In July 2003, an SAS team performed a close target reconnaisance of a residence in Mosul, thought to contain Uday and Qusay Hussein, Saddam's sons. British commanders pushed for the SAS to raid the house but are denied. A combined force of US Delta Force and the 101st Airborne eventually attacked the building and killed Uday and Qusay.
Operation Marlborogh
In July 2005 an SAS sniper team neutralized an insurgent bomb squad before they could reach their targets in the city.
In March 2006, in a bloodless operation, the SAS rescued British activist, Norman Kember, and 2 Canadians who had been kidnapped in Baghdad
more info: SAS rescue Norman Kember
September 5th, 2007 - A 30-man SAS team assaulted a house that intel had pinpointed as the location of a senior Al-Qaeda figure. The mission was a success but sadly it costs the life of one of the SAS assaulters.
more info : SAS soldier killed in mass raid on Al-Qaeda chief
(Times Online report)
March 26th, 2008 - 1 SAS soldier from Task Force Black is killed during an operation against insurgents in a town in Northern Iraq.
more info : 'Ambush' that left SAS trooper dead
(BBC News Report)
As with its other commitments such as counter-terrorism and training, the SAS rotates a squadron into Task Force Black on a 6-monthly basis.
SAS DESERT STORM AIRSTRIKE
SAS - Airstrike - eliteukforces.info - YouTube
This footage was filmed through the FLIR on a US F15E fighter/bomber during the 1991 Persian Gulf War. The SAS fighting column of Land Rovers are deep behind enemy lines in Iraq's western desert. The Iraqi scud convoy has already been attacked by the SAS and the launcher vehicle has been set alight by a Milan anti-tank missile. After a protracted engagement, the SAS called in the bombers.
Make sure to enable your speakers for this one as it includes a rare recording of the SAS ground controllers - one calls in the coordinates and later you hear a second SAS controller identifying his own forces to avoid becoming a target for the bombers.
Things of interest in this clip:
The call sign 'Delta-2-1' indicates that this SAS column was from D Squadron.
The 2nd SAS voice identifies himself as 'Highlight', the codeword for UK special forces, as used during the war..
The co-ordinates given out for the SAS's location can be viewed via Google Earth:
click here to download the KMZ file for this SAS engagement
if you don't have Google Earth, get it here
SAS Photos
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