Join the UK Special Forces Reserves

15 Apr

This is an introduction to United Kingdom Special Forces (Reserves) Selection. It is for potential male volunteers with no previous military service, past military service or serving Reservists.

United Kingdom Special Forces Reserve UKSF(R) comprising of 21 SAS(R), 23 SAS(R), SBS(R) and 63 (SAS) Signal Sqn (R), is tasked to the highest level and can operate in difficult and often changing circumstances, sometimes in absence of guidance and within situations that have significant operational and strategic importance. The kind of individuals required to operate successfully in these circumstances are not found in abundance. The selection process for entry into UKSF(R) seeks to identify the qualities and potential of those suitable for service within UKSF(R).

Those eligible to volunteer for UKSF(R)

UKSF(R) accepts male volunteers who have no previous military service aged 18 to 32 or male volunteers who have had previous military service with any part of the Regular or Reserve Armed Forces (Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Army, and Royal Air Force) up to the age of 34. Volunteers must be able to commit to considerable training demands and willing to deploy overseas.

UKSF(R) Support Staff are not required to pass selection however must maintain a level of fitness and commitment. The specific trades required in support of UKSF(R) are:

Drivers, Chefs, Vehicle Mechanics and Clerical staff willing to transfer to the units.

Medical Staff are also required however they must have either previous military service with qualifications to CMT1 level or a civilian who holds a national qualification in emergency response or nursing.

Equality and Diversity

UKSF(R) operates in accordance with Government policy on the employment of women in the Armed Forces. Females are not allowed to serve with tactical subunits. Appointments do exist in administrative roles and as Special Forces Communicators.

What is UKSF(R) selection?

The UKSF(R) Selection Course is tried and tested, the course is run twice per year. It is both physically and mentally demanding and is broken down into 2 main components:

Aptitude

Aptitude is a progressively arduous phase, requiring greater expenditure of physical energy, designed to select volunteers with the right qualities. It is emphasized to stand any chance of success you must be physically fit at the start of the course. The qualities required are:

Physical and mentally robust. Self Confident. Self Disciplined. Able to work alone. Able to assimilate information and new skills.

Continuation

On passing aptitude you will undertake continuation training which is an intensive period of instruction and assessment on Special Forces tactics, techniques and procedures, including weapons and standard operating procedures (SOP's). This is progressive with the emphasis on individuals assimilating new skills while under physical and mental pressure. At the end of the continuation you will be trained to an operationally deployable status.

Progressive Training

Within 12 months of completing selection candidates will enter a period of probation which will require the completion of a basic parachute course and a communication course. On completion of these courses and the probation period candidates will be eligible for mobilization. Throughout your career training and skill development will be continuous as soldiers are required to maintain a high level of proficiency in a diverse range of skills.

Commitment

You will require a very high level of commitment as both aptitude and continuation are conducted over a set number of weekends and periods of continuous training totalling approximately 80 days over a 12 month period. Such commitment is dependant on the support of your employer and family.

In summary

UKSF(R) provides an opportunity for soldiers to work within a unique, independent organization which takes pride in its heritage, role and professionalism. Service is physically and intellectually challenging, but the rewards are significant.

In addition to a strong sense of purpose in embracing the challenges of a complex world, UKSF (R) provides challenge and adventure with the additional benefit of Special Forces pay rates. It also provides an excellent grounding for those who aspire to serve with the Regular UKSF units.

Contact us

UKSF(R) units are located throughout the UK. To contact us use the contact email address at UK Special Forces Reserves at the bottom if this page.  Please ensure you complete all the details. A member of the recruiting staff will then reply.

We look forward to you accepting this challenge and coming forward.

IN BRIEF

Application criteria

• The following criteria is applicable to all volunteers:
• You must be a UK citizen or Commonwealth citizen residing in the UK
• Aged from 18 to 32 without previous military experience or,
• Aged up to 34 with previous military experience
• Physically fit and mentally robust
• Able to commit to considerable training demands
• Willing to deploy overseas

Do you meet the mandatory requirements? If so, please email the address below with the following information:

Full Name
Date of Birth
Telephone point of contact
Service history (if relevant)
Address
Post Code

For National Enquiries:

08000285650 or

Contact us on UKSF(R)