The SAS -- an elite force

The SAS -- Special Air Service -- is one of the world's best known and most respected elite forces.

SAS Motto: Who Dares Wins.

Based in Herefordshire, England.

The history of the SAS dates back to WWII -- it was conceived by Captain David Stirling, and has been in action since 1941. It was initially created as a desert force.

Most famous operation came in May 1980, when SAS forces successfully stormed the Iranian Embassy in London, where 26 staff and visitors had been taken hostage.

SAS soldiers were first deployed in Northern Ireland in January 1976.

EXTRA INFORMATION Interactive: U.S. Special Operations Forces

SAS forces saw extensive action in the Falklands war.

The SAS has engaged in anti-terrorist operations, mostly in Northern Ireland, although reports have pointed also to SAS activity in Libya.

During the Gulf War, SAS teams went deep within Iraq to search for mobile Scud launchers.

Only around 10 soldiers out of 125 applicants are said to make it through the gruelling selection process. Those selected receive the beret and famous winged dagger beret badge -- symbolizing the Sword of Damocles.

Operations shrouded in secrecy -- government defence sources do not comment on special forces' activities.