[2] The squadron embarked on Ark Royal later that month, with the carrier providing air cover to the fleet and to Allied troops.

The squadron was regrouped with Fairey Fulmars in Gibraltar during April 1941, proceeding with two flights to HMS Victorious to search for the Bismarck, and to Argus.

On regrouping later that year, the squadron joined Furious for an attack on Petsamo, and after the West Indies onboard Indomitable was involved in the Madagascar operations.

The squadron, operating from Emperor provided escort for Fairey Barracudas in the April 1944 attacks from against the Tirpitz in Alta Fjord, Norway.

The inevitable crop of landing accidents and cumulative airframe stress damage meant the end of the Seafire's operational life.

During the Korean War the squadron flew 245 offensive patrols and 115 ground attack sorties before Triumph was replaced by Theseus with its Sea Furies and Fairey Fireflies.

In August 1951 the Supermarine Attacker entered service with the Squadron at Ford, West Sussex, later embarking in HMS Eagle.

800 NAS then recommissioned with Armstrong Whitworth Sea Hawk FB.3s in July 1954, and joined the newly commissioned Ark Royal the following year.

Flying from RNAS Brawdy in Wales on 28 March 1967, eight Buccaneers dropped 42000 lbs of high explosive bombs and achieved a 75% success rate.

After covering the British withdrawal from 'East of Suez' Eagle returned home to pay off in January 1972, her squadrons flown back to their shore bases to disband.

On 31 March 1980, 800 NAS was recommissioned with five BAe Sea Harrier FRS.1s at RNAS Yeovilton under Lieutenant Commander Tim Gedge, a former Phantom pilot, and embarked in the new Invincible until June 1981 when it transferred to Hermes, recently refitted with a 12-degree "ski jump" ramp to assist Sea Harrier operations.

Lieutenant Commander Gordon Batt DSC was killed in action flying a Sea Harrier FRS 1 from Hermes on 23 May 1982.

[8] The squadron disbanded later that year, as a result of the 2010 Strategic Defence and Security Review and the subsequent withdrawal of Harrier fleet.

Lt/Cdr M Pether RNR Head of Flight within the Sea Cadet Corps, maintains the traditions and honour of the Naval Air Squadron and will continue to do so until 800 NAS gets re-commissioned .