Special Air Service Regiment

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== Special Air Service Regiment ==

The Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) is a special forces unit of the Australian Army. It is a direct command unit of the Special Operations Command and is tasked with conducting a range of operations, including counter-terrorism, special reconnaissance, direct action, and unconventional warfare.

History

The SASR was established on 25 July 1957 as the 1st Special Air Service Company, Royal Australian Infantry. It was modeled on the British Army's Special Air Service (SAS) and has since evolved into one of the most elite and capable special forces units in the world. The regiment has seen action in numerous conflicts, including the Vietnam War, Gulf War, War in Afghanistan, and the Iraq War.

Structure

The SASR is organized into several squadrons, each with specific roles and capabilities. These include:

• 1 Squadron
• 2 Squadron
• 3 Squadron
• 4 Squadron
• 152 Signal Squadron
• Operational Support Squadron

Roles and Capabilities

The primary roles of the SASR include:

• **Counter-Terrorism**: The SASR is responsible for responding to terrorist incidents and conducting hostage rescue operations.
• **Special Reconnaissance**: Conducting covert surveillance and gathering intelligence in hostile environments.
• **Direct Action**: Engaging in offensive operations such as raids, ambushes, and sabotage.
• **Unconventional Warfare**: Supporting resistance movements and conducting guerrilla warfare.

Selection and Training

Selection for the SASR is highly competitive and rigorous. Candidates must pass a series of physical and psychological tests, followed by the Special Forces Entry Test and the Special Air Service Regiment Selection Course. Successful candidates then undergo extensive training in various skills, including parachuting, diving, mountaineering, and close-quarters combat.

Operations

The SASR has been involved in numerous high-profile operations, including:

• **Vietnam War**: Conducted long-range reconnaissance patrols and direct action missions.
• **Gulf War**: Participated in Operation Desert Storm.
• **War in Afghanistan**: Engaged in counter-insurgency operations and targeted high-value individuals.
• **Iraq War**: Conducted special reconnaissance and direct action missions.

Equipment

The SASR is equipped with a wide range of specialized equipment, including:

• **Weapons**: M4 carbine, Heckler & Koch MP5, SR-25, and various sniper rifles.
• **Vehicles**: Long Range Patrol Vehicle (LRPV) and Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicle.
• **Communications**: Advanced radio and satellite communication systems.

See Also

• Special Operations Command (Australia)
• Australian Army
• Special Air Service
• Counter-terrorism
• Special reconnaissance
• Direct action
• Unconventional warfare