HMS Archer's service history includes Atlantic convoy escort from February to November 1942. During November 1942, she ferried 30 P-40 Warhawks from USA to Casablanca, then provided Atlantic convoy escort from December 1942 to October 1943. During this time one of her aircraft, a swordfish from 819 squadron, sank the German Uboat U-752 on 23 May 1943 with rockets in the North Atlantic.

HMS Archer started major engine repairs 8/1943 but defects were found to be extremely serious; decommissioned 6 November 1943 and used as a stores hulk. Used as an accomodations hulk after March 1944. Main reduction gears replaced at Belfast starting August 1944; repairs completed March 1945 and transferred to Ministry of War Transport as a ferry carrier (renamed Empire Lagan) 15 March 1945.

Returned to USN 9 Jan 1946, stricken for disposal 26 Feb 1946. Sold into merchant service 1946 as Archer. Renamed Anne Salem 1949, Tasmania 1955, Union Reliance 1961. Burned, blown up and grounded to prevent sinking at Houston, TX 7 Nov 1961 after collision with tanker Berean. Salvaged and scrapped at New Orleans starting March 1962.

Commanding Officers:
Cdr. James Ian Robertson, RN
October 1941 – May 1943
Promoted to A/Capt. ca August 1942

Capt. Horace Temple Taylor Bayliss, RN
May 1943 – ca. August / September 1943

A/Cdr. Wilfrid John Nixon, RN
ca. August / September 1943 – 9 November 1943

Cdr. Henry Ellis Bickley, RN (retired)
9 November 1943 – 8 March 1944

Cdr. Horace Walker, RN (retired)
8 March 1944 – still in command in July 1944 according to the Navy List

HMS Archer is not listed in the October 1944 Navy List