Can anyone join SAS reserves?
Christopher Snyder
Updated on February 22, 2026
Applicants must be no older than 42 years 6 months when applying to join the Army Reserves (AR). They will then be sponsored out to their recommended local AR unit to complete basic training and gain experience before being allowed to attempt SAS Reserves Selection.
Do SAS reserves go to war?
The reservist SAS regiments have operated all over the world, including the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. They come directly under the control of the Director of Special Forces, not a TA equivalent.Do SAS reserves get deployed?
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).How many SAS reserves are there?
The regular army unit is 22 SAS Regiment and the reserve units are 21 Special Air Service Regiment (Artists) (Reserve) (21 SAS(R)) and 23 Special Air Service Regiment (23 SAS (R)), collectively, the Special Air Service (Reserve) (SAS(R)).Can civilians join SAS reserves?
Outside of the SAS Reserves, the SAS doesn't recruit civilians. To be eligible to join the SAS, you must be an official member of one of the uniformed services of the British Armed Forces — either the Naval Service (comprised of the Royal Navy and Royal Marine Commandos), the British Army, or the Royal Air Force.Was Bear Grylls in the SAS?
BEAR GRYLLS OBE, has become known worldwide as one of the most recognized faces of survival and outdoor adventure. Trained from a young age in martial arts, Grylls went on to spend three years as a soldier in the British Special Forces, as part of 21 SAS Regiment.Do SAS reserves get paid?
Pay and BenefitsOn successful completion of Selection, the starting daily rate for an SAS Trooper is over £112, plus all the usual Army Reserve service incentives, which includes an annual tax-free bounty, paid leave and pension.