For Operation Torch, the November 1942 Anglo-American invasion of Vichy French North Africa, it was decided to paint US-style markings on the Royal Navy aircraft taking part. It was thought (optimistically) that both the US and French would be less likely to open fire on them as a result. The French military in the area had a particular hatred of the Royal Navy since in 1940 it had bombarded the Vichy French fleet in harbour at Mers-el-Kébir to prevent its possible use in an Axis invasion of Britain.
Operation Torch marked the Seafire's operational debut. While the new aircraft represented a jump in performance over existing RN fighters it was found not to be a good carrier aircraft, as it was too fragile, difficult to land and lacked a wing fold mechanism. Most Seafire losses during Torch came from landing accidents rather than enemy action. This aircraft was part of 885 NAS based on the fleet carrier HMS Formidable.
