StorbritannienSAS

StorbritannienSAS, commonly referred to in English as the British Special Air Service (SAS), is a premier special forces unit of the British Army. It was established in 1941 by David Stirling during the Second World War to conduct long-range reconnaissance and raids behind enemy lines in North Africa and elsewhere. Over the decades the SAS has developed into a highly capable force with a focus on counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, direct action, and special reconnaissance.

The unit operates covertly and frequently conducts joint operations with allied forces. It is part of the wider UK Special Forces framework and answers to the UK Ministry of Defence, alongside other specialized units such as the Special Boat Service. Public information about its organization, numbers, and current deployments is limited for security reasons.

Selection and training are notoriously demanding. Candidates undergo a rigorous process that tests endurance, navigation, weapons handling, survival skills, and the ability to operate independently in hostile environments. Training emphasizes stealth, decision-making under pressure, and adaptability to rapidly changing situations.

Notable operations attributed to the SAS include the 1980 Iranian Embassy siege in London and various counter-insurgency, reconnaissance, and hostage-rescue missions during and after the Falklands War, as well as later operations in the Middle East and Central Asia. Details of ongoing activities remain classified, limiting publicly verifiable information.

StorbritannienSAS is widely referenced in Swedish-language sources as the British SAS and has influenced international special forces doctrine and popular culture while maintaining a high level of national security capability.