Under the radar
EXHIBITION Special Forces: In the Shadows National Army Museum, London 17 March–18 November 020 7730 0717 nam.ac.uk
The secret world of special forces comes under the spotlight at the National Army Museum this month, in its first major exhibition since the museum reopened in March 2017. The exhibition will examine 70 years of Britain’s special forces, exploring the roles played by these elite regiments since their foundation in the Second World War, outlining the training and skills required, and describing operations around the world.
The men and women of special forces have to undergo a rigorous recruitment regime. One part of the exhibition examines this process, looking at six examples of those that have made it through. This will include interviews with former soldiers as well as highlighting the intense physical and psychological preparation that still plays a role in how these soldiers are chosen.
The exhibition is divided into seven distinct sections, which look at the actions of special forces units over the years, such as the dramatic rescue of hostages being held in the Iranian Embassy in London, in May 1980.
Many of the objects on display are being brought together for the first time, including the compass that Paddy Mayne, SAS founder member and one of the Second World War’s most decorated soldiers, wrenched from an enemy plane cockpit. Another notable exhibit is a complete SAS counter terrorist kit from 2007.