The Special Air Service (SAS) was formed in the North African desert in 1941, the brainchild of Colonel David Stirling. He bequeathed to the present day a simple, unshakeable fact – a small force of well-trained, well-armed, determined men operating way behind enemy lines can achieve damage and destruction totally out of proportion to its size. This concept remains as true today as it was then.

A unique combat unit was created; copied but never equalled – the much feared SAS. Mike Morgan tells the story of the SAS, from its beginnings in the Second World War, through its involvement in the ‘bush wars’ of the 50s and 60s, and the more secretive military operations of the Cold War era, through to the Gulf Wars of more recent years. Nearer to home, the anti-terrorist duties of the SAS are covered – for example, the Iranian Embassy siege. He also looks at what it takes to be an SAS soldier, their selection and training, their weapons and equipment, and their links to the Special Forces of other nations. A series of appendices cover gallantry awards and a timeline of the regiment.