On 3 November 1942, Foskett led his squadron in a sortie over El Alamein against a formation of Stuka dive bombers that were escorted by Messerschmitt 109s. During the ensuing engagement, seven Stukas were shot down, with an additional eight probably destroyed and several others damaged. Foskett himself shot down two of the Axis aircraft before he was hit by fire from one of the Messerschmitts. Forced down, Foskett landed his aircraft in a minefield, where he was safely extracted by a formation of the British Army in the area. Returning to his squadron that evening, Foskett resumed flying duties the following morning. Foskett was subsequently awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his actions during the engagement. The announcement and accompanying citation for the award was published in a supplement to the "London Gazette" on 4 December 1942, reading: