Fleet Air Arm fighter choice often came down to availability

When would the Fleet Air Arm choose Seafire, Firefly, Corsair, or Wildcat?

The Royal Navy usually used the fighter available and best matched to a carrier's equipment and refit history.

British carriers refitted in the United States were naturally easier to pair with American aircraft, while British-equipped carriers more readily used British types. The Royal Navy was adept at adapting American aircraft and equipment, so the distinction was flexible. Production totals also overstated available deck strength because aircraft were lost, damaged, assigned to training, or held in maintenance. Escort carriers used Wildcats, Martlets, Seafires, and other types according to availability and deck suitability.