Britain’s elite special forces confront a severe staffing shortage after just five recruits succeeded in the grueling selection process from a group exceeding 120 candidates—the lowest number in five decades.

Over 50 soldiers and Royal Marines aspiring to join the SAS or SBS dropped out during the initial week. Survivors emerged “almost broken” from the six-month ordeal, with some shedding up to a stone in weight and others suffering skin issues from jungle training.

A defence source noted: “Special forces selection appears tougher than ever, with pass rates at alarming lows. All successful candidates lost significant weight and required recovery time before advancing. This reflects the cost of entering the world’s premier fighting unit.”

Global Deployments and Recent Losses

UK special forces maintain active operations worldwide, including in Iraq and Syria. A Special Forces Support Group member recently died during a training exercise in Ukraine. Units frequently operate understrength while upholding rigorous standards amid ongoing commitments.

Resignations Linked to Policy Disputes

Members of the SAS Association assert that personnel are leaving the elite unit due to the government’s refusal to grant amnesty from prosecution for Northern Ireland veterans. Defence Minister Al Cairns, a former SBS commander decorated with the Military Cross and Distinguished Service Order in Afghanistan, rejected the assertion, citing a lack of supporting evidence.

The Rigorous Selection Phases

Hills Phase

The process begins with a three-week Hills Phase in Wales’ Brecon Beacons. Candidates endure marches with 30kg packs and rifles, culminating in the “Long Drag”—a 64km trek completed in under 20 hours.

Jungle and SERE Phases

Next follows the Jungle Phase in Brunei, considered the most punishing segment. Candidates then face the SERE training—Survive, Evade, Resist, Extract—to test survival behind enemy lines.

Continuation Training

Finalists must rapidly master diverse weapons in continuation training.

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson affirmed: “Our Armed Forces deliver exceptional service in safeguarding the UK at home and abroad. Successive governments maintain a policy of non-commentary on UK Special Forces.”