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Special Air Service (Reserve) - (SAS(R))
The 2 territorial SAS regiments, 21 and 23 SAS, who form SAS(R), are independent entities staffed by civilian volunteers (except for senior ranks who are from 22 SAS).
21 and 23 SAS reservists are given communications and signals intelligence (SIGINT) support by 63 (SAS) Signals Squadron, of the Royal Corps of Signals, also manned by volunteers. SAS(R) Role And Operational HistoryThe traditional role of 21 and 23 SAS is to carry out long range reconnaissance patrols for the regular UK Army (although these days the focus is on augmenting UKSF operations), freeing the regular SAS from recon tasks and onto direct actions. 23 SAS had previously been trained for combat search and rescue (CSAR) although it's now reported that role has been given to dedicated RAF Regiment units. In the 1991 Gulf War, members of SAS(R) were used as battlefield casualty replacements for deployed 22 SAS units, namely landrover fighting columns from A and D Squadrons who were operating in the Iraqi Desert. SAS Reservists deployed to the Balkans in the mid-90s. Members from 21 and 23 SAS formed a composite unit known as 'V Squadron' and were engaged in peace support operations. In 2003, it was reported that 21 and 23 SAS had been operating in Afghanistan where they have carried out long range reconnaissance operations(1). Another role that SAS reservists are thought to carry out is that of so-called 'hearts and minds' operations. On such missions the SAS give medical and other assistance to local forces and populations in a given theatre. In Helmand Province, Afghansitan, SAS(R) were reportdely deployed in a mentoring role, training and operating alongisde the Afghan National Police (ANP). According to a April 2010 Telegraph report(2), SAS(R) first deployed to Afghansitan in 2003 where they helped to establish a communications network across the country. They also acted as liason between various local political factions, NATO and the new Afghan goverment. The same report mentions that SAS(R) were withdrawn from frontline duties in Afghanistan due to a lack of a clear role. Their mentoring role with the ANP was taken over by regular units. Some SAS Reservists were reported to be carrying out close protection duties for Foreign Office personnel in Kabul, Afghanistan's capital city. The men of 21 and 23 SAS are typically issued with standard UK infantry weapons, ie the SA80, LMG, GPMG etc. SAS (R) SelectionSelection is open to men over 18 and under 32 (or under 35 for those with military experience) who are fit and do not have a criminal record. Selection itself consists of a series of physical tests run over a series of weeknights and weekends, in keeping with the part-time nature of TA units. Selection consists of the following phases:
SAS(R) CONTINUATION TRAININGCandidates who successfully complete Selection will enter a period of probation and must complete the following courses to be fit for mobilisation.
Once successfully through continuation training, SAS(R) soldiers will undergo periodic UKSF Military Annual training Tests (MATTs) and Main Training Periods. Additional qualifications can be sought throughout the SAS(R) soldier's career:
A further reserves element exists, called L Detachment. Unlike 21 and 23, who are independant entities, L Detachment is directly attached to 22 SAS 
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