The inspiration for the SAS can be traced back to the deserts of North Africa in 1941, where the British forces were locked in a fierce struggle against the formidable Axis powers led by Germany and Italy. The traditional methods of warfare were proving inadequate in the vast, open landscapes of the Sahara, where conventional armies faced logistical challenges and the unpredictability of the environment. It was within this context that a young officer named David Stirling, serving with the Scots Guards and later the No. 8 Commando, began to conceptualize a novel approach to warfare.

Stirling, an unorthodox thinker and a visionary, recognized the limitations of conventional military tactics in the North African theatre. He proposed the creation of a small, highly mobile force that could penetrate deep into enemy territory, striking at strategic targets such as airfields, supply depots, and command centers. The aim was to disrupt enemy operations, create confusion, and weaken the Axis forces from within. This idea was radical and met with skepticism from many senior commanders who were accustomed to the traditional doctrines of warfare.

However, Stirling's determination to realize his vision was unwavering. He believed that a small, elite unit could achieve what larger formations could not-by exploiting the element of surprise and utilizing speed and agility to outmaneuver the enemy. His concept drew inspiration from earlier British commando operations and the daring exploits of T.E. Lawrence during the Arab Revolt in World War I. Lawrence, famously known as Lawrence of Arabia, had demonstrated the effectiveness of guerrilla tactics in the desert, capturing the imagination of military strategists like Stirling.

To bring his idea to fruition, Stirling needed not only approval from his superiors but also a team of men who shared his vision and were willing to take on the challenges of such a daring endeavor. He began recruiting individuals who exhibited exceptional physical fitness, mental toughness, and a willingness to embrace unconventional methods. These men were drawn from various branches of the military, including commandos, paratroopers, and even those with civilian backgrounds who possessed unique skills valuable to the mission.

Stirling's persistence paid off when he secured a meeting with Major General Neil Ritchie, the Deputy Chief of Staff for Middle East Command. Ritchie, recognizing the potential of Stirling's plan, granted his approval, albeit with limited resources and personnel. Thus, the "L Detachment, Special Air Service Brigade" was officially formed in July 1941. The unit's name was deliberately misleading, designed to deceive the enemy into believing it was a larger airborne division, thereby enhancing the element of surprise.