​​​The role of the FAA saw a new naval age in the move away from battleships to aircraft carriers. In turn this would mean pilots of the Royal Navy would train and then be deployed as part of the FAA on carriers. 

​FAA participate in the Battle of Malta during the Second World War. It played a significant role in supporting the defence of Malta against Axis forces, primarily the Italian and German air forces. 

​During the battle, the FAA deployed various aircraft, including fighter, bomber and reconnaissance aircraft, to provide air cover, conduct bombing raids on Axis shipping and airfields, and gather intelligence on enemy movements. 

​The aircraft carriers HMS Eagle and HMS Ark Royal were among the key assets of the FAA involved in operations around Malta. Their aircraft helped to protect convoys supplying the island and to disrupt Axis shipping attempting to reinforce North Africa. 

​Overall, the Fleet Air Arm's contributions were vital in helping to defend Malta and maintain its strategic position in the Mediterranean during the war. 

​The FAA also played a significant role in battles and operations in the Far East. One notable engagement where the Fleet Air Arm participated was the Battle of Singapore in February 1942. While the Royal Navy's main fleet was not directly involved due to its commitments elsewhere, aircraft from British carriers, including HMS Indomitable and HMS Hermes, flew sorties in defence of Singapore and its surrounding areas. However, the fall of Singapore to the Japanese marked a significant defeat for the Allied forces in the region. 

​After the fall of Singapore, the Fleet Air Arm continued to operate in the Far East, participating in operations such as the defence of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) and supporting Allied efforts in Burma and the Indian Ocean. ​Throughout the war in the Far East, the Fleet Air Arm faced significant challenges due to the vast distances involved, harsh tropical conditions, and the superiority of Japanese air and naval forces. Nevertheless, its contributions were essential in supporting Allied operations and maintaining pressure on Japanese forces in the region.