Five weapons made famous through SAS special operations

Whether it's weapons, vehicles or operations, the special forces have been ahead of the curve when it comes to modern warfare.

Here are five weapons that became famous through SAS operations.

Browning Hi-Power Pistol

The Browning Hi-Power became closely associated with the SAS during the latter half of the 20th century, particularly in counter-terrorism and special operations.

Praised for its reliability, accuracy and high magazine capacity for its era, it was widely carried by SAS operators.

Its prominence grew through public awareness of high-profile operations, cementing its place as one of the most recognisable sidearms in British special forces history.

Heckler & Koch MP5

Few weapons are more closely linked to the SAS than the Heckler & Koch MP5 submachine gun.

The weapon achieved worldwide fame during the SAS assault on the Iranian Embassy Siege in London in 1980, when television viewers watched black-clad troopers storm the building and rescue hostages.

Its compact design, accuracy and controllability made it ideal for close-quarters battle.

Colt M16 and CAR-15

During operations in harsh environments, particularly in the late Cold War period, SAS troops often used variants of the Colt M16 and the shorter CAR-15 carbine.

Their lightweight construction, high firepower and adaptability made them popular among patrols operating behind enemy lines.

Photographs and accounts from SAS deployments helped make the American-designed rifles familiar to military enthusiasts worldwide.

Heckler & Koch GPMG (FN MAG)

The FN MAG General Purpose Machine Gun, often referred to simply as the GPMG in British service, became famous through SAS long-range desert patrols.

Mounted on specially modified Land Rovers, the weapon provided firepower during reconnaissance and raiding missions.

Images of SAS vehicles carrying machine guns became synonymous with the regiment’s deep-penetration tactics.

Accuracy International Arctic Warfare Rifle

The Accuracy International Arctic Warfare sniper rifle gained a formidable reputation through its use by SAS marksmen.

Designed in Britain, it became known for its precision, reliability and effectiveness at long range.

Its success in military service around the world further enhanced its status as one of the most respected sniper rifles developed.

Together, these weapons remain closely associated with the SAS’s reputation for innovation and specialist operations.