Themes

892 Squadron: Simon's Sircus

Article Highlights

• Introduction

• 806 Squadron: the Royal Navy goes to North America.

• 738 Squadron: Red Seahawks.

• Naval Fighter School: Fred's Five.

• 892 Squadron: Simon's Sircus

• 705 Squadron: The Sharks.

• 702 Squadron: The Black Cats.

Forming the team

Formed in 1968 and commanded by Lieutenant Commander Simon Idiens, who was a founder member of Fred's Five and gave his name to this display team.

Simon's Sircus were formed as an aerobatic team in 1968 after 892 squadron disembarked from HMS Hermes and reduced to six aircraft. The team prepared for the display season at RNAS Yeovilton between operational sorties which could see them embark on a carrier anywhere in the world.

There is a huge level of skill involved in looping a 20 ton frontline fighter. Nearly all the pilots and observers were 'First Timers' to aerobatics, the average age was only 26; the youngest was Sub-Lieutenant Taylor Scott at 21 years old.

Air Displays

The routines flown by the Sea Vixen had been specially devised to show off the capabilities of the aircraft. Much credit for this must be given to the Observers who sat tucked in a confined space known as the Coal Hole. This was on the side next to the pilot. Their job was to give directions by calling out height and speed information, while constantly checking their instruments.