HMS Attacker

HMS Attacker was an American built ship constructed by the Western Pipe & Steel, San Francisco. She was laid down on 17 April 1941, as US Steel Artisan, then named USS Barnes AVG-7. She was launched on 27 September  1942, and transferred to the RN on 30 September 1942. She was commisioned on 10 October 1942.

The "Attacker" Class were the second batch of escort carriers built in the USA for the Royal Navy, the lead ship - Attacker - having originally been intended to be one of the "Avenger" Class. They were also the first escort carriers to be ordered after the USA entered the war; the USN kept the other 10 vessels ordered at the same time, as these became the "Bogue" Class. Like their predecessors they were converted from mercantile hulls however they were powered by steam turbines. The first of the class arrived in the UK in January 1943 and commenced active service in August 1943. Once the ships were ready for action they soon proved themselves, both as convoy escorts and fighter support ships for amphibious landings.

HMS Attacker was essentially an "Assault Carrier" 1942-1945. Her main battle honour was earned when she supported the Salerno landings. She was returned to the USN on 5 January 1946, and became the mercantile Castel Forte 1948, Fairsky 1958, and Philippine Tourist 1979. She was scrapped in 1980.

Battle Honours

Atlantic 1943 - 4, Salerno 1943, South France 1944, Aegean 1944.

Squadrons and Aircraft
Aircraft Convoy Escorts 14~20 Swordfish / Avenger aircraft and 4 Martlets

879 squadron embarked on HMS Attacker in July 1943 for the Mediterranean, taking part in the Salerno landings. On return to the UK the squadron joined the 4thNaval Fighter Wing, and incorporated 886 squadron aircraft and crew to bring the squadron to 20 aircraft. The squadron being based at Andover and Burscough (HMS Ringtail?) until February 1944.