Five lesser-known SAS facts that you might not know about

Here are five lesser-known facts about the SAS that you might not know of.

SAS beginning

The SAS began as a World War II desert raiding force, not as a general-purpose elite unit.

It was created in 1941 to operate behind enemy lines in North Africa, where small teams targeted supply lines, airfields, and morale rather than fighting conventional battles.

The unit’s early purpose was highly specific, and that original raiding role shaped much of its later reputation.

SAS was not acknowledged for decades

The SAS was not officially acknowledged for decades.

Although it had operated for years, its existence was only publicly confirmed much later, which helped build the mystique around the unit.

That secrecy meant many details of its missions and structure stayed hidden from the public even as the SAS became famous.

SAS and Herefordshire

The regiment is closely linked with Herefordshire, not just London or a generic military base.

It is often called "The Regiment" or simply "Hereford" because of its long association with Hereford, and that local identity has become part of its culture and nickname tradition.

SAS selection is not just about fitness

The SAS selection process is not just about fitness; it is also designed to test mental resilience under extreme pressure.

Candidates are expected to handle very demanding training, including long periods in difficult terrain and situations intended to push them beyond ordinary endurance.

The reputation for toughness is so strong that the selection process itself has become almost as famous as the unit.

SAS' influence

The SAS has had a major influence on special forces around the world.

Other elite units, including the US Delta Force, were shaped in part by observing or learning from SAS methods and standards.

That means the SAS did not only build its own reputation; it also helped define what modern special operations forces look like globally.