What regiments can join the SAS?

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.

Are the Pathfinders special forces?

The Pathfinder Platoon is a reconnaissance unit within the British Army’s 16 Air Assault Brigade. Although not technically a Special Forces unit, the levels of discipline and skills required of Pathfinders are close to, if not entirely comparable to, the United Kingdom’s Special Forces (UKSF).

Can an officer join the SAS?

Yes you can. Officers are attached to the regiment for 2–3 year stints from elsewhere in the UK armed forces. Any Comissioned Officer at Captain or equivalent )or below) in any branch of any service can apply and go through the same selection process as the rank and file. Yes you can.

Can a Royal Marine be a pathfinder?

The Royal Marines of the Brigade Patrol Troop are comparable in role and proficiency to the PARA’s Pathfinder Platoon and whilst not technically special forces, are certainly an elite within an elite.

How many candidates are selected for the SAS?

Out of an average intake of 125 candidates, the grueling selection process will weed out all but 10. There is now a joint selection process, UKSF selection, for both the SAS and SBS.

What is the pathfinder selection course (pfsc)?

The Pathfinder Platoon’s Selection Course (PFSC), known as ‘The Cadre’, is one of the most arduous in the world. The Cadre covers much of the same ground as the UKSF Selection course with many of the marches taking place across the Brecon Beacons, although condensed into a shorter time scale.

What does a pathfinder do in the Army?

Pathfinders act as the Brigade commander’s eyes and ears typically operate ahead of the Brigade’s front line, often deep behind enemy lines, where they perform advance force reconnaissance operations and mark out drop zones (DZ) and helicopter landing sites (HLS) for use by Brigade forces.

Are Pathfinders considered special forces?

Although not technically a special forces unit, the levels of discipline and skills required of Pathfinders are close to, if not entirely comparable to, SF. Indeed, a stint in the pathfinders is often a good grounding for those wishing to serve in the Special Air Service.