Commandos typically refer to highly trained soldiers who specialize in conducting small-scale raids and other tactical operations, while the SAS (Special Air Service) is a specialized unit of the British Army that is known for its expertise in unconventional warfare, reconnaissance, and counter-terrorism. SAS soldiers are often considered to be among the most elite and skilled military personnel in the world.

The British Army’s Special Air Service (SAS)

The British Army’s Special Air Service (SAS) is a world-renowned special forces unit. The SAS is highly trained in a wide range of disciplines, including counterterrorism, hostage rescue, and direct action. The SAS has been involved in some of the most high-profile military operations in recent history, including the Falklands War and the Gulf War.

The Commandos

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Picture of a commando memorial

The Commandos were a highly trained force of soldiers that were originally formed by the British Army during World War II. They were tasked with conducting raids and other special operations behind enemy lines, and were known for their bravery, skill, and resourcefulness. Today, the term “Commando” is used to refer to a wide range of special forces units in countries around the world.

Commandos Vs. SAS – Key differences

Commandos and SAS (Special Air Service) are both elite military units with specialized training and skills, but there are some differences between them.

Commandos are typically a branch of the military and may include soldiers from the army, navy, or air force. They are trained to perform a variety of missions, including reconnaissance, direct action, and unconventional warfare. Commandos often work in small teams and are skilled in close-quarters combat, weapons handling, and survival techniques.

SAS, on the other hand, is a specialized unit within the British Army that was created during World War II. The SAS is known for its expertise in unconventional warfare, reconnaissance, and special operations. SAS soldiers are trained to operate behind enemy lines, gather intelligence, and conduct raids on enemy positions. They are also skilled in survival techniques and can operate in extreme conditions.

The main difference between commandos and SAS is that commandos are typically a more general branch of the military, while SAS is a specialized unit with a focus on unconventional warfare and special operations. However, the specific roles and responsibilities of each unit can vary depending on the country and the mission.

The New Zealand SAS

The New Zealand SAS (Special Air Service) is the primary special forces unit of the New Zealand Defence Force. The SAS is a highly trained and well-equipped force that is able to operate in a wide range of environments.

The SAS has a long history of operating in hostile environments, and has been involved in a number of high-profile operations, such as the capture of Saddam Hussein in Iraq and the rescue of hostages in Afghanistan. The SAS is also responsible for carrying out counter-terrorism and hostage rescue operations within New Zealand.

The SAS is a small but highly effective force, and is widely regarded as one of the best special forces units in the world.

The Australian Army’s Special Air Service Regiment (SASR)

The Australian Army’s Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) is a highly trained and specialized unit that conducts a wide range of operations, including reconnaissance, counterterrorism, direct action, and special operations. The SASR is one of the most elite military units in the world and has been involved in some of the most high-profile military operations in recent history.

The SASR was founded in 1957 as a part of the British Army’s Special Air Service (SAS), which itself was formed during World War II. The SASR initially operated as a long-range reconnaissance unit in Malaysia during the Malayan Emergency. In the 1970s, the SASR played a pivotal role in counterinsurgency operations during the Vietnam War. Since then, the regiment has been involved in numerous conflicts and operations around the world, including Somalia, Cambodia, East Timor, Afghanistan, and Iraq.

The SASR is a highly secretive unit and very little is known about its inner workings. However, it is widely regarded as one of the most effective military units in existence today.

What’s harder SAS or commandos?

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Picture of a commandos Barret

There is no easy answer to this question as it depends on a variety of factors. In general, SAS members are considered to be more highly trained and better equipped than commandos, but commandos often have more combat experience. It is also worth noting that SAS members typically operate in small teams while commandos often work in larger units.

The History of the SAS

The first Special Air Service (SAS) Regiment was raised in 1941, in the midst of World War II. The SAS was formed in order to conduct reconnaissance and raiding missions behind enemy lines. The SAS quickly gained a reputation for being one of the most effective special forces units in the world.

During the war, the SAS conducted operations in North Africa, Italy, France, Germany, and elsewhere. After the war, the SAS continued to operate as a premier special forces unit, conducting operations all over the world.

Today, the SAS is still one of the most highly respected special forces units in the world. The SAS has been involved in many operations since its formation, including both overt and covert missions.

The History of the Commandos

The British Commandos were formed in 1940, during the Second World War, as a special forces unit of the United Kingdom’s Royal Navy. The first Commando units were created in response to a request from the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Winston Churchill, for a force that could carry out small-scale raids against German-occupied Europe.

During the war, the Commandos conducted many successful operations against the Germans, including raids on the French coast, sabotaging pipelines in Norway, and attacking an airfield in Greece. After the war, the Commandos were disbanded but many members went on to join other special forces units, such as the SAS.

What kind of missions do Commandos and SAS undertake?

The primary difference between commandos and SAS is that commandos are typically part of a larger military unit, while SAS operates as an independent force. However, both groups undertake dangerous and secretive missions.

Some common missions that commandos may undertake include:

  • Direct action: Commandos conduct small-scale raids or ambushes. The goal is to disrupt the enemy’s operations and to capture or destroy targets of opportunity.
  • Special reconnaissance: Commandos gather intelligence about enemy activity in hostile or denied territory. They may also provide information about terrain, weather, and the local population.
  • Unconventional warfare: Commandos train, advise, and assist friendly forces who are fighting against a more powerful enemy. They may also conduct sabotage and guerrilla warfare.

SAS missions are usually more secretive than those of commandos. Some common SAS missions include:

  • Direct action: Like commandos, SAS members conduct small-scale raids and ambushes. However, they often work alone or in very small teams.
  • Counterterrorism: SAS members may be sent in to quickly end a terrorist situation before it gets out of hand. They may also conduct hostage rescues and protective security details.
  • Surveillance and reconnaissance: The SAS gathers intelligence on targets such as drug trafficking operations or terrorist cells. They may use hidden cameras or other clandestine methods to collect this information.

How are special forces different form the Army?

Commandos and SAS are both special forces, but there are some key differences between the two.

The Army is the largest branch of the military, and as such, has a more general focus. The special forces within the Army are designed for specific missions and operate independently from the rest of the Army.

The SAS is part of the British Army and is one of the UK’s most elite units. The SAS was formed during World War II and originally focused on carrying out small-scale raids behind enemy lines. Today, they carry out a variety of operations including counterterrorism, hostage rescue, and surveillance.

Commandos are part of the Royal Marines and are also one of the UK’s elite units. Commandos are trained in Amphibious Warfare and specialize in operating in small groups in hostile environments. They often work alongside the SAS on joint missions.

 

Featured Image By – Aleksey Kashmar on Unsplash

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