About Us

who we are

In 1938 with the threat of war looming, the Air Defence Cadet Corps (ADCC) was formed by Air Commodore Chamier. Hove formed one such Squadron.

In 1941, the Air Training Corps (ATC) was forged under Royal Warrant by King George VI and Squadrons of the ADCC were embraced and rebadged. Thus began 176 (Hove) Squadron but it narrowly missed out on being one of the first fifty ‘Founder’ Squadrons. Instead it took its present number and the motto, Caelum est Terminus or ‘The Sky’s the Limit.’ The Squadron’s first Officer Commanding was Flt Lt Winters RAF.

Our History

In the 1960s the unit was commanded by the legendary Flt Lt Frank Le Duc RAFVR(T), a man whose passion for the unit remains unsurpassed to this day. With the support of his wife, Sylvia Le Duc, he presided over the unit until his retirement in 1996.

Since then, the unit has been commanded by several officers and Senior NCOs.

The Sky’s The Limit!

In 2020, Flt Lt Worth took Command of 176 (Hove) Squadron.

The Squadron, for many young people is an extension of their family; there to provide encouragement and support throughout their time as a cadet and for many years thereafter.

176 (HOVE) SQUADRON AIMS:

Our aims are to:

  • Promote and encourage a practical interest in aviation and the Royal Air Force among young people
  • Provide training which will be useful in the Services and civilian life
  • Encourage the spirit of adventure and develop qualities of leadership and good citizenship

And there’s one more important thing – it’s a lot of fun!