THE KILLING HOUSE (PART 2)

WEAPONS AND AMMUNITION

The weapons used in the 'Killing House' are 9mm pistols and submachine guns -the guns that are used by SAS teams during real hostage-rescue operations. The targets the men shoot at are old diving suits stuffed with rags - crude but sufficient to simulate real people. The Regiment also uses the 'Killing House' to experiment with new types of ammunition. Hostage-rescues invariably take place within confined spaces, such as inside rooms and aircraft cabins. In such areas there is a real danger of hostages being killed by a ricochet. A member of the Regiment describes the kinds of ammunition tried: 'New weapons and ammunition are continually being tested in the "House", and among the latest introductions is a new fragmentation round. It explodes on impact, so if a team has to storm a boat it will hit the bulk-heads and burst without ricocheting, unlike ball rounds.`

When a squadron takes over the anti-terrorist role it has a four-week handover period, during which time it has a chance to put its men through the four-week course and introduce those new members to hostage-rescue training. But do SAS soldiers like training in the 'Killing House'? A member of B Squadron gives his view: 'Initially it's good fun, but then the novelty wears off. All the fumes and the gear quickly reduce the enjoyment factor Also, there's the noise. With all the rounds being fired and the special sound effects it's deafening inside the building.' Be that as it may, the 'Killing House' is essential to getting squadrons up to the required level. But what is that level? An experienced instructor gives his view: 'We are never satisfied with times - one second to draw and fire is too long in SAS reckoning. But it's not just about being able to fire quickly.Guys must be able to identify the bad guys and also prioritise threats. So, when you go into a room you have to clear the doorway - you don't want to get silhouetted - and take the point of dominance so you can sweep the room. You shoot whoever shows intent first. Speed with accuracy that's what it's all about.