In March 1945, the squadron's Wildcats were replaced by Hellcats as it prepared to join the British Pacific Fleet. The change required another work-up before the squadron could operate effectively with its new aircraft. The war ended before the unit completed that preparation and entered combat in the theatre. The squadron was consequently disbanded, ending its wartime Royal Navy service without a Pacific operation.
Notable Point · 36:58-37:27
Hellcats arrive too late for Pacific combat
See why 881's transition to Hellcats and assignment to the British Pacific Fleet did not lead to another wartime combat chapter.