Note: This is part two of a multi-part series exploring the various units within the U.K. Special Forces (UKSF).
The United Kingdom’s prolonged involvement in the Global War on Terror (GWOT) has created the demand for an increase in the country’s number of special forces operators. From that need emerged the United Kingdom’s newest special operations unit, the Special Reconnaissance Regiment (SRR).
Special Reconnaissance Regiment (SRR)
The Special Reconnaissance Regiment (SRR) specializes in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. The mystery surrounding the regiment is even greater than that of its counterparts, the SAS and SBS: Very little information about the unit has ever reached the public domain. The SRR is believed to support SAS/SBS operations by providing close target reconnaissance, surveillance, and “eyes-on” intelligence. The regiment uses state-of-the-art electronic surveillance equipment to eavesdrop on its targets. Teaming up with members from 18 (UKSF) Signals Regiment, SRR provides tactical signals intelligence (SIGINT) for special operations missions. The SRR recruits from all three U.K. branches of service. It is the only UKSF regiment to permit women in operational positions.
The Special Reconnaissance Operator
SRR candidates go through an arduous selection and training process. They are trained in various special forces techniques including resistance to interrogation, escape and evasion (SERE), close-quarters battle (CQB), and High-Altitude Low-Opening (HALO) and High-Altitude High-Opening (HAHO) parachuting. But where the SRR differs from the other units is in its members’ mastery of intelligence-gathering operations.
Photography is a critical skill for all things surveillance, so candidates learn the basics skills right through to nighttime infrared photography. They also study how to conceal visual recording devices within their clothing. Candidates learn numerous methods of surveillance, including hiding in bushes, staying concealed on rooftops, covertly following a target on foot, and conducting surveillance from vehicles. Each operator develops the ability to covertly observe, follow, and communicate via radio.
Operators also study how to install electronic eavesdropping devices (wiretaps) and covert cameras. They engage in planting tracking devices on vehicles, in weapons caches, and on individuals. They’re taught lock picking and key copying to facilitate breaking into houses and businesses so they can plant eavesdropping devices without being exposed. Special Reconnaissance operators also learn language skills best suited to their area of operations.
SRR operators
Special Reconnaissance Regimental History
The Special Reconnaissance Regiment formed in April 2005. The unit incorporated the 14th Intelligence Company, better known as “The Det.” The Det was set up in 1973 specifically for operations in Northern Ireland. There, it served as a special plainclothes surveillance unit. The 14th Intelligence Company was trained by a unique training wing of the SAS and SAS officers served as the unit’s command. The techniques and experience developed in Northern Ireland by The Det have been passed down to SRR operatives, who have since assumed a key role in the GWOT.
Note: This is part two of a multi-part series exploring the various units within the U.K. Special Forces (UKSF).
The United Kingdom’s prolonged involvement in the Global War on Terror (GWOT) has created the demand for an increase in the country’s number of special forces operators. From that need emerged the United Kingdom’s newest special operations unit, the Special Reconnaissance Regiment (SRR).
Special Reconnaissance Regiment (SRR)
The Special Reconnaissance Regiment (SRR) specializes in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. The mystery surrounding the regiment is even greater than that of its counterparts, the SAS and SBS: Very little information about the unit has ever reached the public domain. The SRR is believed to support SAS/SBS operations by providing close target reconnaissance, surveillance, and “eyes-on” intelligence. The regiment uses state-of-the-art electronic surveillance equipment to eavesdrop on its targets. Teaming up with members from 18 (UKSF) Signals Regiment, SRR provides tactical signals intelligence (SIGINT) for special operations missions. The SRR recruits from all three U.K. branches of service. It is the only UKSF regiment to permit women in operational positions.
The Special Reconnaissance Operator
SRR candidates go through an arduous selection and training process. They are trained in various special forces techniques including resistance to interrogation, escape and evasion (SERE), close-quarters battle (CQB), and High-Altitude Low-Opening (HALO) and High-Altitude High-Opening (HAHO) parachuting. But where the SRR differs from the other units is in its members’ mastery of intelligence-gathering operations.
Photography is a critical skill for all things surveillance, so candidates learn the basics skills right through to nighttime infrared photography. They also study how to conceal visual recording devices within their clothing. Candidates learn numerous methods of surveillance, including hiding in bushes, staying concealed on rooftops, covertly following a target on foot, and conducting surveillance from vehicles. Each operator develops the ability to covertly observe, follow, and communicate via radio.
Operators also study how to install electronic eavesdropping devices (wiretaps) and covert cameras. They engage in planting tracking devices on vehicles, in weapons caches, and on individuals. They’re taught lock picking and key copying to facilitate breaking into houses and businesses so they can plant eavesdropping devices without being exposed. Special Reconnaissance operators also learn language skills best suited to their area of operations.
SRR operators
Special Reconnaissance Regimental History
The Special Reconnaissance Regiment formed in April 2005. The unit incorporated the 14th Intelligence Company, better known as “The Det.” The Det was set up in 1973 specifically for operations in Northern Ireland. There, it served as a special plainclothes surveillance unit. The 14th Intelligence Company was trained by a unique training wing of the SAS and SAS officers served as the unit’s command. The techniques and experience developed in Northern Ireland by The Det have been passed down to SRR operatives, who have since assumed a key role in the GWOT.
Next, we’ll take a look at the Special Boat Service, better known as the SBS.
As someone who’s seen what happens when the truth is distorted, I know how unfair it feels when those who’ve sacrificed the most lose their voice. At SOFREP, our veteran journalists, who once fought for freedom, now fight to bring you unfiltered, real-world intel. But without your support, we risk losing this vital source of truth. By subscribing, you’re not just leveling the playing field—you’re standing with those who’ve already given so much, ensuring they continue to serve by delivering stories that matter. Every subscription means we can hire more veterans and keep their hard-earned knowledge in the fight. Don’t let their voices be silenced. Please consider subscribing now.
One team, one fight,
Brandon Webb former Navy SEAL, Bestselling Author and Editor-in-Chief
Barrett is the world leader in long-range, large-caliber, precision rifle design and manufacturing. Barrett products are used by civilians, sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military, and more than 75 State Department-approved countries around the world.
PO Box 1077 MURFREESBORO, Tennessee 37133 United States
Scrubba Wash Bag
Our ultra-portable washing machine makes your journey easier. This convenient, pocket-sized travel companion allows you to travel lighter while helping you save money, time and water.
Our roots in shooting sports started off back in 1996 with our founder and CEO, Josh Ungier. His love of airguns took hold of our company from day one and we became the first e-commerce retailer dedicated to airguns, optics, ammo, and accessories. Over the next 25 years, customers turned to us for our unmatched product selection, great advice, education, and continued support of the sport and airgun industry.
COMMENTS
There are on this article.
You must become a subscriber or login to view or post comments on this article.