Special Forces: In the Shadows, National Army Museum

Think of secret agents and glamorous images of a be-suited 007 and his leading lady may spring to mind. But in reality The Special Forces test human endurance, strength and stamina to the limit: these elite regiments require seemingly superhuman soldiers to complete top-secret missions. Special Forces: In the Shadows gives us a rare glimpse into the army’s most closely guarded activity.

Expect to be thrown into the world of The Special Forces like never before: their world has been recreated in this exhibition using objects, videos and photos and archival material sourced from collections around the UK. Look out for the SAS Counter Terrorist Kit from 2007 on display and take the time to read the multiple testimonies from the past 70 years that bring the exhibition to life.

There are some surprises in store, too. Test your observational skills and memory via interactive installations throughout the exhibition and learn about the Special Forces selection process which is not only mentally tough, but physically rigorous. You'll also discover the tricks of the trade that really help soldiers survive – unexpectedly among these are condoms to carry water and tampons to plug wounds.

Special Forces: In the Shadows closes with an exploration of the role and status elite regiments have in the popular imagination and the emotional impact secrecy has on the soldiers and their families. This is about as up close and personal as the Special Forces are ever going to get.

It's not all about martinis shaken, not stirred!

Culture Whisper is offering Gold Whisper members free pairs of tickets to visit this exhibition between 17-18 March. Book now to avoid disappointment.