British SAS Selection

Brtish SAS selection is specially designed to break people. Selection is the ultimate testing of endurance and mental strength. Selection comes in 3 phases:

Special Forces Briefing Course: Three day class to show potential SAS and SBS recruits what is expected. Includes both class room lectures and physical training. Candadates are shown films and given some insight into Selection. The candidate MUST pass this course to be allowed onto Selection.

First three weeks of Selection are mostly held in the Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains in Wales. If a soldier fails a test more then twice is "Returned To Unit". During the testing, Soldiers face increases in their weight in their bergens (rucks), and distances become greater. One of the most difficult parts is the "Fan Dance", a march over the Brecons which takes about 4 hours. Another is the "Long Drag", which is held on the last day of the three weeks. The Long Drag is about 40 miles over the Brecons carrying a 55 pound bergen. The passing times range from 20 to 24 hours.

Jungle Phase: SAS and SBS soldiers will be integrated into patrols. Rain is almost non-stop. The jungle affects people in different ways. Disease is a constant threat.

Escape and Evasion: Soldiers are taught how to live off the land. Escaping is taught. Former "Prisoners Of War" talk to the class. Final Exercise: The men are paired up with other students from other branches and units. They are given only old jackets, ripped pants, and falling apart boots. They are let loose in a large wooded area. They must check in with various check points. A "Hunter Force" is always in pursuit. By the end ALL the recruits are captured. Now they face TQ. Applicants must stick to the "Big 4". After completion the remaining class will go it's separate ways. For the SAS men, they receive the beret and famous "Winged Dagger" beret badge.



Origins OF the British SAS
David Sterling: Founder British SAS
SAS In Falklands War
The Iranian Embassy Siege
SAS Selection
Peterhead Prison
SAS In Iraq
The SAS Motto
SAS Books


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