SAS – A Pictorial History of the Australian SAS 1957-97 (2nd Edition)

The Special Air Service Regiment, officially abbreviated SASR but commonly known as the SAS, is a special forces unit of the Australian Army. While it is modelled on the British SAS, with which it shares the motto “Who Dares Wins”, the regiment also draws on the experience of World War II Australian special reconnaissance and commando units, particularly Z Special Unit (Z Force/SRD). It is based at Campbell Barracks, in Swanbourne, a suburb of Perth, Western Australia. The SASR is widely regarded as an elite unit.

The SASR currently has three sabre squadrons, known as 1, 2 and 3 Squadron. These squadrons rotate in turn through the two roles performed by the SASR. One squadron maintains the counter terrorism role, and the remaining two squadrons maintain the surveillance and reconnaissance role. On operations each squadron is supported by a troop from 152 Signal Squadron.

In the reconnaissance role the SASR typically operates in small patrols which has the task of infiltrating enemy-held territory and providing intelligence on troop movements. In this role the SASR generally seeks to avoid directly engaging enemy units, though SASR soldiers will call in air and other support to destroy enemy units whenever possible. SASR reconnaissance patrols can be inserted by air, land or sea (including by submarine) and have proven capable of covering large distances in jungle and desert terrain.

In the counter terrorism and special recovery roles the SASR specialises in tasks such as direct action and hostage rescue, including boarding moving ships (ship underway). In contrast with the SASR’s reconnaissance role, when operating in the counter terrorism role SASR units are only tasked with the mission statement “to rescue the hostages”. The SASR provides Tactical Assault Group (West), while the 2nd Commando Regiment provides Tactical Assault Group (East). Revised Edition A 40th anniversary project undertaken by the National Secretariat of the Australian Special Air Service Association” pp. 416 illusts #0520/0920/0321 (Signed by Author.)