SAS hero Andy McNab backs suggestions for women to serve in his old elite Special Forces regiment
McNab said it has been proven that 'women cope incredibly well under pressure'
SAS hero Andy McNab has backed suggestions that women may serve in his old regiment.
The elite Special Forces unit, motto Who Dares Wins, is considering making its gruelling selection process easier for females.
Potential recruits could carry lighter loads during arduous marching tests, and get more time to finish.
But McNab, author of SAS book Bravo Two Zero, insisted there was more to making the grade than physical strength.
He said it had been proven that “women cope incredibly well under pressure”.
McNab added: “People look at the SAS as being about carrying packs over ground, and running up and down hills. But there is cause for a lot more in the covert environment.
“Women are a major, major asset. They are demolition trained, parachute trained and they can be amazing shots.”
Woman will be able to apply for all close combat units in the British military from 2019.
The current SAS selection process is believed to be the toughest in the world and some fear reducing it could lower standards.
But a source told The Sunday Times: “There is a determination to get women into the Special Forces.” The MoD said it did not comment on Special Forces.