The formations used by RAF Fighter Command at the beginning of World War II were largely down to the commanding officers preference, but were always based on the element or “vic” of three aircraft. This “vic” had its foundation in the Hendon Air displays of the 30's and tactics of earlier wars with slow aircraft. With the development of the modern monoplane fighter, the tactical situation could change much faster and seeing the enemy as early as possible was vital.

The “vic” was basically a leader with two other Squadron aircraft formating closely slightly behind and either side of him. Furthermore, the next element of three had to formate on the leaders “vic”. As can be seen, with all this close rigid flying, there were very few eyes, possibly only the squadron leader's, looking beyond the immediate part of the sky the squadron was in.