Royal Air Force 56 Squadron was patrolling over the town of Ashford at their maximum efficient altitude when they spotted a group of five German Bf 110 twin-engine fighters flying in a defensive circle. The Germans maintained formation as the Hurricanes approached, which was odd considering their numerical disadvantage and the fact that a Bf 110 could easily outrun a Hurricane at that high altitude. The decision to stay and fight was a costly one, as all five German fighters were shot down by the tighter-turning Hurricanes. None of the unfortunate pilots was seen to bail out.
