In November 1971, the squadron prepared to abandon ship and evacuate "Bulwark" when a serious boiler room fire broke out while off the coast of (then) Jugoslavia. An area of flight deck aft from the rear hangar lift was all that could be used for flying because the crew were mustered for Emergency Stations on the flight deck. Plans for how to launch 21 aircraft from three spots in quick succession were rapidly made. The fire was brought under control and the squadron was stood down. One Marine Engineering Mechanic died in the fire. In January 1972, 845 embarked on "Bulwark" for Operation Exit, the withdrawal from Malta. "Bulwark" lay in Grand Harbour for 11 weeks and flew more than 1,000 missions. Prince Charles served in the squadron in the 1970s.