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During the Second World War, both the Allied and Axis air forces had huge interest in the aircraft operated by their adversaries. Downed enemy aircraft that could be repaired and returned to the air, then evaluated against their own aircraft, were highly prized by both sides. In Germany, the Luftwaffe high command had a dedicated trials and research unit (Versuchsverband), which was formed to assess and demonstrate the capabilities of captured Allied aircraft. Aircrafts operated by the unit included P-51 Mustangs, a P-38 Lightning, P-47 Thunderbolts, Spitfires, Mosquitos, and a Hawker Typhoon. These machines were extremely distinctive - they had to clearly display their new ownership to other German Units!

The unit was under the command of Theodor "Ted" Rosarius, who was charged with establishing his Enemy Aircraft Evaluation Flight in 1934. These fabulously presented and highly prized aircraft toured front line Luftwaffe fighter stations, allowing pilots an opportunity to see their adversaries close up, and to discuss the flight characteristics with their comrades. Known affectionately as the "Wanderzirkus Rosarius", a vist from the zirkus and its latest acquisition was cause for great excitement!