A Total War is all encompassing, a war without boundary or limitation. It is a war of material and morale. The Second World War was a war in which massive armies advanced, confronting whole populations with impossible choices. Told through archive footage and expert interviews, we learn how WWII shattered the boundaries between home-front and battlefield. Episode one explores the portents of total war to come; in Manchuria, China, Abyssinia and Spain.
Hitler disobeyed the call for German disarmament as early as 1933. By 1935, the world knew he had broken the terms for world peace. This meant the rest of the western world could only mobilise too...
The Lightning War was an unprecedented series of German offensives that resulted in almost total and complete victory in every instance. But how did they do it? Why was it so effective? And what was it like for the countries who fell so swiftly before the German war machine?
In WW2, air raids were one of the most brutally effective and destructive methods of striking at the heart of the opposition. However, inevitably, this would come at a great cost to those at home....
Total War was not the cause of the Holocaust but it did provide a means for its execution. This episode will explore what role total war played in this genocide. How it enabled 'ordinary people' to take part in unfathomable horrors against innocent women, children and men under the cloak of war. How the administration of the war facilitated the enactment of a repugnant ideology.
The end of the Second World War brought destruction and liberation, relief mixed with grief. Explore the aftermath of total war. The war crimes trials that sought to prosecute unprecedented crimes and established new laws that hoped to prevent their repetition. The creation of the United Nations, the hopes for an 'enduring peace' and the fate of millions of refugees displaced by total war.
In 1950 the world is caught off guard as North Korea launches a massive armoured assault into South Korea. This is the story of the American tankers who rush to the aid of the South and the bloody battles they fight up and down the Korean Peninsula.
In 1916, the British debut a new mobile weapon, hoping to break the long bloody stalemate on the Western Front. This is the story of the first tanks and how they change the face of the modern battlefield forever.
Battlezone uses the collated newsreels and archived war films that were used to inform the US home front of how the war in the Pacific was progressing -- from the perspective of the American Military.
At the outset of WWII, the Germans pioneered a new form of mobile armored warfare .This is the story of how the Nazi's unleashed the blitzkrieg on Western Europe as thousands of Panzer tanks raced across rugged terrain and crushed Allied defenses.
This episode uses the collated newsreels and archived war films that were used to inform the US home front of how the war in Vietnam was progressing -- from the perspective of the American Military.
Canadian Armoured Corps tanks charge up the Italian peninsula to help liberate Rome from the Nazis.
Here, we've collated some very special films shot by the American military to give a sense of how the American military depicted the Vietnamese - from both south of the border and north.
By 1942, Rommel's Afrika Corps has been pushed back to Tunisia and the new US tank force lands in North Africa. This is the story of the final North African battles as two of history's most famed tank commanders - Patton and Rommel - go head to head.
In 1963, the U.S. Army 57th Medical Detachment (Helicopter Ambulance) commander started using the radio call sign "Dustoff" for his medical evacuation chopper.
The dramatic story of highly-decorated German tanker Ludwig Bauer who discovered the harsh reality of armoured warfare during World War II.
Archival footage of US Army films that discuss the changing tactics of the Viet Cong, and how the American Military adapted to meet the challenge.
In 1967, in response to a growing threat by her Arab neighbours, Israel launches a pre-emptive strike against Egypt in the Sinai. This is the story of one of the swiftest and most dramatic victories in modern warfare.
Rare archive footage of the Vietnam War from both fronts; the combat and peacekeeping efforts of the American Military, and the growing animosity toward the war back home...
In 2012 a group of Falklands War veterans returned to the places where they fought. Reliving their experiences, from being called into action to the heat of battle, they face up to the demons that have stayed with them since those fateful weeks in 1982.
In the battle for the Pacific, America waged all out total war on Japan. In doing so they launched bombing missions and fought countless battles overhead. Surprisingly however, it was often the return trip that proved the most fatal. With high winds and moving runways in the form of aircraft carriers, pilots often struggled to judge their approach, resulting in the loss of several planes over board in the process. In these rare archive films we see how difficult this really was, and hear the full story of the Pacific theatre.
In 1941 Stalin refused to believe that Hitler would break the non-aggresion pact he signed just two years previously. And so despite over 90 warnings it would not be until the guns were heard attacking Soviet forces that he would fully respond. But respond he did. Battles Won & Lost looks at why Barbarossa was launched in the first place, and how despite early German success, it was ultimately doomed to fail. Along with Operation Barbarossa, this episode examines more of the great battles of WW2. See the bottom of the description for more detail.
In September 1944 the Allies launched Operation Market Garden. The brainchild of Bernard Montgomery its objective was to punch a hole in the German line and establish the northern end of a pincer movement across the Rhine, that would finally defeat Germany. The outcome however was very different. In this episode of Battles Won & Lost we see how failed communication and poor tactics led to the defeat of Market Garden. Alongside Market Garden we’ll also be looking at several other great battles of the war and examining the outcomes in detail, with everything from ‘The Dunkirk Evacuation’ in 1940 to ‘The Battle Of Berlin’ in 1945.
From September 1941 to January 1944 Leningrad had been under siege from the German army. For four years they were defiant, and this defiance was about to pay off. In this episode of Battles Won & Lost we see how Soviet forces relieved Leningrad after all this time and understand what it was like for those living under this bombardment. Described as “A city of heroes defiant of death, ready to die on their feet because they don’t want to live on their knees” Leningrad was a place where the “supply of courage was never low.”
Six months after the attack of Pearl Harbor came The Battle of Midway. Here the US would come up against a formidable Japanese navy and make Midway one of the most famous battles of WWII. In this episode of Battles Won & Lost we investigate both sides tactics and why despite being outnumbered the US were able to come out victorious.
The destruction of the Anglo-American convoy PQ 17 was one of the worst naval disasters of WWII. Hunted down by German U-Boats, Luftwaffe and the notorious Tirpitz, the 35 merchant ships headed for Arkhangelsk were carrying 700 million dollars worth of cargo, including tanks, aircraft and other supplies. With these supplies all destined for the Soviets to utilise against Hitler’s during Operation Barbarossa, what effect did the destruction of this convoy have for the German war effort, and what might have happened had it reached its destination intact?
The attack on Pearl Harbor is a day that will live in "infamy" said Franklin D. Roosevelt, both for America and the world. Suffering significant losses after the Japanese surprise attack on the island of Honolulu, Pearl Harbor was one of the most significant events in changing the outcome of WWII. But how did it unfold? This episode of Battles Won & Lost examines the famous attack, and the reason it had such a profound effect on the war.
During WWII Japan launched its new war balloon weapon on America. The Fu-Go balloon bomb. Utilising the jet stream, Japanese forces launched these hydrogen filled bombs, floating across the Pacific with the intention of bringing untold destruction to US cities and industry. Also in this episode of World War Weird; The strange U-Boat sighting of WWI, and the real reason behind Hitler's biggest mistake.
In WWII strange lights, later called 'Foo Fighters' were reported by Allies. But what exactly were these strange lights in the sky? Was it the German V2 Rocket, or something even more sinister...? Also in this episode; We hear the true story behind the secret British SS and the famous aristocrat who tried to court Hitler, the amazing story of a US dentist and his secret plan to release killer bats on Japan, and the Polish mass grave that is still unexplained to this day.
Three years after WWII, an ex-SS Officer led a team of divers on the hunt for hidden Nazi gold along the coast of Corsica. Believed to have been stashed for Nazi high command, is there really hidden tresures in these caves, or has the SS officer made it all up? Also in this episode; The amazing story of Stalin's kamikaze canines, the British bomber rats, and the mysterious New York advertisement that seemed to warn citizens about Pearl Harbour before it even happened.
In WWII, the Churchill and the British Secret Service devised a plan to dupe Hitler. Named Operation Mincemeat, a team of spies, including James Bond author Ian Fleming, prepare a dead body that would be ‘found’ by Nazi spies, upon which are vital documents on the Allied invasion plan, intended to fool Hitler. But would such a crazy idea work…?
Operation Quicksilver was part of the larger scale Operation Fortitude in WWII. It's objective; to create a distraction which would allow the Normandy landings to succeed. But with not enough men to stage a decoy landing in the Pas-de-Calais, Churchill and Eisenhower had to invent a whole army, down to the finest details. But would it work...?
The Abwehr was Nazi Germany’s secret service during WWII. But unknown to Hitler, its leader Wilhelm Canaris was a double agent, leaking key information to Churchill and the Allies, making sure his spies were always caught and plotting to kill Hitler himself. Also in this episode; Did Churchill let Pearl Harbor happen? And the amazing story of the British magicians who fooled Rommel in North Africa.
The Medal of Honor is the highest and most prestigious military decoration that may be awarded to recognize American soldiers throughout the US Air Force, Army and Navy as well as the US Coast Guard and the recently formed US Space Force. In this episode we see just how the Medal of Honor came to be invented and why it has become the most distinguished medal among US service people.
The pride of Russia, the Amber Room was a room in the Catherine Palace near St Petersburg, covered in highly valued amber, gold and mirrors. But in WWII when the Nazi's came looking the room was dismantled and taken back to Germany. But ever since its whereabouts are unknown? Where did it go and who took it there? Also in this episode; the two million ton ice ship that would destroy German U-Boats, a B-17 that landed all by itself, and the strange UFO signtings in WWI.
During WWII the Nazi's didn't trust anyone, not even their own party leaders. So in 1939 Reinhard Heydrich took control of Salon Kitty, one of Berlin's most notorious high-class brothels. Here they would listen in to their own party members and visiting dignitaries like like Joachim von Ribbentrop and Mussolini's son-in-law. But little did they know that the British were also listening....
During the US assault on Guadalcanal there were strange sounds and words coming across the radio for US soldiers. Had one of their radios been taken by the Japanese enemy? Was it some secret code? It was in fact their own men...Navajo men, known as code talkers.
In 1944, D-Day can only succeed if Nazi Germany are kept in the dark, in particular about the whereabouts of their top leaders like Bernard Montgomery. So the Allies devise a plan…to clone Monty, or rather trick the Nazi’s into believing he is somewhere else. But how will they do it…?
The SS Death's Head Rings of WWII were born out of the Nazi's obsession with Nordic mythology and the occult. In particular that special rings are able to grant power to their wearers. With Himmler's as their figure head, each member of the SS is issued with a Death's Head Ring. But in 1944 production was halted, and Himmler ordered that all remaining rings were to be sealed inside a hill near Wewelsburg. To this day the rings have not been found...
This is the story of the 93rd bomb group of WWII. The most travelled, most colourful, most efficient, most highly decorated bomb group of WWII. Their base was called Hardwick Aerodrome 104. This story is dedicated to those who called Hardwick home during the dark days of WWII.
The October War: Battle Of Golan Heights | Greatest Tank Battles | War Stories
Blitzkrieg. The Lightning War. Here, we gather some of the best and most authentic archive footage of the time to show how the world reacted to Hitler's unstoppable assault on Western Europe.
The Battle Of Stalingrad -- a turning point victory for the Red Army, though not one that came without a huge human cost. Here, we take a look at the furious tank conflicts that made up just one thread of this titanic battle of The Eastern Front.
The Battle Of Britain; the now legendary air battle for air supremacy over The English Channel. This is largely credited with the turning point against Hitler in the Western Front before the Americans joined the war with the Axis. Here we've collected rare archive footage from the Home Front and the skies over London, as the Battle Of Britain began in earnest.
By 1944, the Soviets have turned the tide of war in the East and are pursuing the Nazi army back through the Baltic States. This is the story of the German tankers who continue to fight and win the battles even though they cannot win the war.
An authentic look at maritime war, with rare archive footage and war films shot by The Royal Navy's officers and crew during the Second World War.
In the 1991 Gulf War the American 2nd Armoured Cavalry Regiment drove into a sandstorm. How did they overcome Iraq's elite Republican Guard blind?
The Pacific War follows the defeat of Hitler's Third Reich in Germany, but what followed was no less bloody. Here, we see authentic archive footage and films shot by commanders and soldiers alike in the Pacific Theatre, as the Allies closed in on the Empire Of Japan.
In 1973, Syria launches a surprise attack against Israel in the Golan Heights. This is a story of survival, where a few out-numbered tankers manage to hold off an enemy of overwhelming size in one of the greatest tank battles ever waged.
After WW2, there was growing panic among the public at the threat of nuclear annihilation. During the Cold War, the US Department of Civil Defense commissioned many infomercials and public service films to educate the public on what to do in the event of a nuclear attack.
In 1942, Rommel's Afrika Corps faces off against Montgomery's Eighth Army. This is the story of the climax in the struggle for North Africa, which would change the course of the Second World War.
The Africa campaign was one of the most dramatically contested duels of the WW2: where Axis and Allied powers vied for supremacy to ensure strategic and economic dominance. Here, rare archive footage and war films taken directly from the front of this long and arduous campaign for North Africa.
The Battle Of The Bulge. In December 1944, German forces launch a surprise attack through the Ardennes Forest in Belgium. This is the story of the American tankers who helped defend the American line against Hitler's final gamble on the western front.
The Battle over Europe follows the all-out bombing offensive against Hitler’s Third Reich. These authentic archive films tell the story of this campaign and the great air war that grew out of it. We hear straight from the mouths of those who experienced it and those who are never going to forget it.
On February 8th 1945 Canadian forces launched one of the most ferocious and costly battles of WW2 with the aim of taking the Hochwald Gap and forcing the German army back over the Rhine and into Germany. In The Battle For The Rhineland we hear from both sides of this devastating offensive and re-live what it was really like in the winter of 1945.
At the start of 1941 Moscow is the only major capital not at war. All this is about to change. With rare archive footage and war films, The Battle For Moscow shows the brutal nature of the eastern front and the extraordinary tactics of both Allied and Axis powers in their fight for control.
Italy 1944, the Germans are on the back foot. With the Allied advance taking hold of Sicily and increasing amounts of mainland territory the German Army is reinforced with 60 of its very best fighting units to stop the advance.
In August 1942, after the failure of Operation Barbarossa, Hitler turned his sights to Stalingrad. Needing significant reinforcements he utilised the armies of his closest allies in Italy, Hungary, Romania and Croatia, amassing a forces that would undertake one of the bloodiest battles in history, and one that would turn the tide of the war for either side.
Michael Wittmann was considered as one of the greatest Nazi tank commanders of WW2. Having served in the Battle of Kursk he was redeployed to Normandy soon after the D-Day landings. Receiving The Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross from Hitler himself, Wittmann was considered a cult hero with the Nazi propaganda machine embellishing his already well known achievements.
It’s 1944, and D-Day is on the horizon. With the Russians on the attack and the Allies about to take Rome, Hitler’s armies are on the defensive. Now his “impregnable” Atlantic Wall will be tested. Leading the defensive is Erwin Rommel, who obstructs the beaches and floods the lowlands in preparation of the Allied invasion force. One thing he doesn’t know…the Resistance have got their hands on his plans.
Vietnam 1965. American Marines have landed in the south. With them, two platoons of 3rd Tank Battalion Armour. Heading up this offensive is General William Westmoreland. A veteran of WW2, Westmoreland attempts to draw Viet Cong forces into a conventional war and beat them with conventional methods. But this will turn out to be a very different war…
“We shall conquer!” These were the words of Benito Mussolini, known as Il Duce in 1940. But just three years later, on July 10th 1943, Allied troops led by Montgomery and Patton began to land in Sicily, completing one of the greatest amphibious operations ever attempted, and beginning The Battle of Italy. This sparked the end of the great facist dream in Italy and the new Roman Empire Mussolini had dreamt of. It was to be the beginning of the end for Il Duce.
In September 1944, the US 3rd Armoured Division have reached the Siegfried Line. All that’s left is to cross it and the war will surely be over by Christmas. But the Allies have another thing coming. The German army would fight until the very end. With accounts from the soldiers themselves, Greatest Tank Battles takes us back to the last year of the war to see what it was really like to defeat the German Wall.
Summer 1944, and Hitler’s army is retreating on all fronts. With 57,000 German POW’s in Moscow, the battle of Russia is over, but the battle of Germany is just about to begin. With 1000 plane air strikes over Germany and land forces closing in, it seems only a matter of time before Germany will fall. But it won’t be as easy as the Allies expect. This episode of Battlezone tells the story of The Battle for Germany and shows us what life was really like through rare archive footage.
On January 31st 1968 The Tet Offensive began. It would be one of the largest offensives of the Vietnam War, and marked the beginning of Vietnam’s bloodiest, as forces from North and South battled for control of the country. Greatest Tank Battles takes us back to this 1968, speaking to those soldiers who experienced it first hand and looking at the tanks that carried them through.
In 1945 the Allies launched an aggressive bombing campaign on Berlin to break German morale. In these rare archive films we hear from the civilians who experienced these raids of terror and see how Germany was soon to be defeated.
By 1942 Japan's empire stretched well into the South Pacific. However, after the events of Pearl Harbor in 1941 and then Midway six-months later, this empire would never be the same again. An advancing US Marine Corps would aim to take back this empire, one island at a time, launching the first amphibious tank assault in US history, and beginning a brutal war that would see tanks on both sides go head-to-head.
The final months of Hitler's life were a desperate attempt to hold on to power and prevent the inevitable. With the Allies fast approaching Berlin, and discovering camps like Buchenwald and other atrocities, Hitler organises his Peoples Militia, forcing all men from 14 to 70 to fight no matter what. These rare archive films show what Hitler's last few months were really like and the Allied plans for after the war.
In 1940, Hitler's grand ambition to go one step further than the Kaiser came to fruition. Using his blitzkrieg tactics, he rapidly took Belgium, the Netherlands, and France in just six weeks. But how was this possible? Spanning the course of WW2 Battles Won and Lost takes a tactical view at some of the most crucial battles of the war, understanding how they were won.
On February 18th 1945 US Forces began bombing and shelling the island of Iwo Jima ahead of the soon to land Marine Corps that would aim to take the island in only a matter of days. However, despite being the most bombed place in the Pacific theatre, American troops had little idea of how well defended the island would be, with extensive tunnels under Mount Suribachi protecting the vast majority of Japanese General Tadamichi Kuribayashi's men.
As America and Britain went into WWII, more and more women were taking on roles in industry, filling the positions of men who had left to fight. In America alone, up to six million women took up positions in the civilian workforce, with roles spanning munitions, lumber and steel work to government and other office jobs. In these rare archive films we take a look back to see what life was really like for these women, how they quickly took on their new jobs and how they helped win the war.
On April 25th 1915 Anzac Forces landed on the beaches at Gallipoli. What followed would be an eight-month campaign that would go down as one of the most devastating of WWI, and the larger fight to come on the Western Front. It is on this day each year that these brave men are remembered and commemorated, for giving their lives for their country and putting their fledgling nations on the map. In this program we take a look at what it means to be an Anzac through the years, from WWI right through to Vietnam and what makes this day so important to so many.
Ronald Reagan narrates in this episode of Battlezone, taking a look at George Patton’s full career, from West Point to the western front, examining how his future career was set in stone since the day that he was born. Taking charge in North Africa he led forces through the invasion of Sicily and Normandy as well as commanding the Allied victory at the notorious Battle of the Bulge.
In 1944, Monte Cassino was all that stood in the way of the Allied advance on Rome. But was the persistent bombing of the historic Benedictine monastery really necessary, having caused "the greatest cultural loss of the war." Also in this episode of Battles Won & Lost, we explore some more decisive battle of WWII including, The Battle of Stalingrad, The Anzio Landing and The Battle of Britain.
Taking part in the famous Dambusters Raid the Lancaster Bomber is said to be the finest bomber of WWII. In this fascinating history of the Lancaster, we hear from the brave men that flew her and the impact they had on the war effort. With fantastic archive colour footage from the time, we see everything from the ingenious dropping of aluminum shards to confuse German radar, to the great Dambusters raid in Operation Chastise.
After the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, Roosevelt, Marshall and Eisenhower prepared America for the greatest war it had ever fought. With rare archive footage, this episode of Battlezone shows the steps America took to make their presence felt, both in the Pacific and on the Western Front.
On the 8th August 1944 the Black Baron or Michael Wittmann as he was known, was killed during the Battle of Villers-Bocage. But who really killed him? This is the question that has gone unanswered for over 70 years. The Battlefield Mysteries team return to Villers-Bocage to find out…
General Eisenhower helps narrates this episode of Battlezone, taking us from the fight for Tunisia against Rommel and the infamous Kasserine Pass, right through to Sicily and the battle for Italy itself. In these rare archive films we see what it was really like for Eisenhower and his men hearing in detail both the successes and setbacks and the tough tactical decisions that needed to be made.
In the spring of 1940 the island of Malta was far from war. But all that was about to change. With the war stretching out to North Africa, the island became critical in the Allies' ability to halt Axis supply routes. And so Malta came under direct fire from the feared Luftwaffe. In this episode of Battlefield Mysteries we hear from the soldiers who defended the island and the civilians that took cover in the underground bomb shelters while the bombs rained down overhead.
From the Director of The Maltese Falcon, and Editor of The Godfather, ‘Let There Be Light’ takes an intimate look at the life of American WWII soldiers dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and their road to recovery. Revolutionary for its time, the use of hidden cameras captured intimate moments of these soldiers at their most emotionally vulnerable moments, with the resulting film being intended to educate the public about how difficult this reintroduction to society was for these men.
The De Havilland Mosquito was a one of the most successful fighters of WWII. Being able to go undetected over occupied territory it carried out some of the most dangerous missions for the war.
In 1944, during the height of WWII, General MacArthur heard rumours that the Admiralty Islands had been abandoned by Japanese forces in the Pacific. Immediately he hurried plans to take the islands, in what would be a monumental Allied victory and helping bring an end to Operation Cartwheel.
When the Spanish Civil War broke out in 1936, Canadian and American volunteers rushed to Spain’s defence. Seeking to uphold the republic and halt the march of General Franco and facism, they travelled in their thousands, giving their lives for a country they had never seen. This episode of Battlefield Mysteries seeks to uncover their stories and bring to light the heroic deeds of these forgotten men.
The American G.I.s got “the dirty end of the deal” according to the men that fought in WWII. In this episode of Battlezone, these G.I.s narrate their experience during the Italian campaign, recalling rain storms and meagre food rations, to rare opportunities to shower and the first cold beer they’d had in years when reaching Naples.
The Dunkirk evacuation was one of WWII’s great escapes. With 338,226 troops evacuated in just nine days it is one of Britain's most famous moments of the war, and with the term ‘Dunkirk Spirit’ being coined in its aftermath it gave Britain a huge morale boost, ready to fight again another day.
The Volkswagen Schwimmwagen was used during WWII by the Wehrmacht and other German ground forces. The most mass produced amphibious car in history these vehicles are now exceptionally rare, even more so those that still work. So can Bruce Crompton and his team of experts get this Schwimmwagen going again...?
General MacArthur was one of WWIIs impactful leaders. But how did he come to lead so many Americans through the greatest war ever fought? In this episode of Battlezone we see his career in all its glory, from West Point on to his eventual retirement 52 years later.
Also called the Jagdpanzer 38, the WWII Hetzer was known as ‘The Tank Destroyer’. But what is it like to drive and fire an original? Also in this episode, Bruce tries to sell a custom built Sd.Kfz. 251 half-track, but he needs some spare parts, and he know just the place in Germany.
John Huston directs this WWII film on The Battle Of San Pietro. Speaking to those who led the famous campaign, we see exactly how the town was won and the importance it had for the rest of the Italian campaign. Also in this episode; we see how the US Government recruited so many women to help the war effort, and Ginger Rogers and James Cagney narrate Battle Stations, the story of the US Navy during WWII.
The greatest Nazi mistake of WWII is highly debated. But can anything compete with their underestimation of the USA? In this episode of Battlezone, we see the US War Department's recreation of this crucial error and see how America's hidden army helped win the war. Also in this episode; The experience of a US Army nurse, the true story of Dwight D. Eisenhower, and James Stewart narrates the story of Fellow Americans, showing how all over America bombs were falling during WWII, just not the type you might expect.
From June 6-7 1942 The US Aleutians Islands of Attu and Kiska, were invaded by Japanese forces. This was the first time America had been invaded in 130 years, and as part of Alaska, the islands were vital the control of Pacific transport routes, with US General Bill Mitchell saying “whoever holds Alaska will hold the world. I think it is the most important strategic place in the world.” In this episode we see in color, the US and Canadian effort to regain the islands, fighting not just against the enemy, but a harsh weather cycle that surrounds the islands.
After Pearl Harbor in WWII, America set out on the long mission to regain control of the Pacific. In this episode we see the long and arduous campaign drawing to a close, with American forces taking the Japanese-held islands of Guam, Tinian and Saipan in the Marianas chain. Also in this episode: In 'Steel Town' and 'A Community At War' we see the differing experiences of two Ohio cities, Youngstown and Dayton, and how their industrial power helped drive America to victory in WWII.
In 1940, Britain waited for the Nazi invasion to come. But RAF Fighter Command stood firm and prepared to fight back in the Battle of Britain. But it was one man's foresight and commitment that allowed Britain to stand strong. This man was Hugh Dowding and this is his story.
Operation Overlord and the Normandy Landings of D-Day were said to be the “Greatest military gamble on history”. In these rare archive films we see what it was really like in the days leading up to the invasion and the tough days that followed. From the first Paratroopers to drop over Nazi occupied France to the follow up vehicles that brought supplies, each was as important as the other in this operation that would change history.
Outnumbered and outgunned RAF Fighter Command were the last line of defence in pushing back the Luftwaffe and Hitler’s invasion of Britain in 1940. In part one of this series we see what it was like in the early days of the battle for Britain’s skies and how the RAF held on and repelled German attacks.
On August 15th 1944, just two moths after D-Day, Operation Dragoon began. The US Navy began to fire on the beaches of the Cote D’Azur, with the US 7th Army quickly landing on the 15 mile wide beachhead. Their aim; to control the south of France and push the Germans back to the Rhone valley, taking back the country once and for all.
How Did WWII Start? The Treaty of Versailles and the interwar years paved the way to WWII and the greatest conflict of all time. Laying the blame at the door of Germany and enforcing strict measures upon its people a resentment was born and the path to WWII set. But what can the numbers tell us about this period, and the detailed economic reasons behind the conflict?
Adlertag or Eagle Day was Herman Göring’s grand Luftwaffe operation to destroy RAF Fighter Command in Britain and pave the way for Operation Sea Lion and the German invasion to commence. But despite boasting to Hitler that he would have achieved the RAF’s destruction within days he was unable to beat them. But how were the RAF able to hold strong and push this formidable air force back?
From December 1944 to January 1945 the US Army and their Allies fought back a last ditch German attack known as the Ardennes counteroffensive, and more famously The Battle of the Bulge. Striking out into Belgium and Luxembourg the offensive targeted Allied supply centres, without which their advance would be halted. But the Allies knew that they couldn’t let this happen…
On September 1st 1939, Hitler’s army invaded Poland, starting WWII and showing the world how they planned to dominate. This method would come to be known as Blitzkrieg or Lightning War, and it would change the face of warfare forever. In this episode of WWII In Numbers, we take a look at the numbers behind this Blitzkrieg, how it was made possible and why the Allies were unable to prevent its devastating effects.
In September 1940 Hitler targeted London and Britain’s industrial heartlands. Giving the order to Goring to launch what he saw as his final assault on Britain, he sent thousands of German bombers over the capital, catching the outnumbered British off guard. But how would Britain respond to this Blitz? Would they give in or muster up the courage to fight back?
What Was It Like For Captured US Soldiers In WWII? #Shorts
Dwight D. Eisenhower helps narrate this account of the end of WWII and its aftermath. With the world left to look at itself more clearly than it had ever done before and see how much it had changed in the last six years, it had to ask itself, how would it pick itself up, and how would it make sure that it didn’t happen again? Would the world finally come together in aid of peace, or would new battle lines be drawn in the aftermath of victory?
Hitler’s success with Operation Sea Lion and an invasion of Britain relied on many things. Most importantly, it needed the Luftwaffe to dominate the skies above Britain. In this episode of WWII In Numbers we take a look at the figures and see why this was never achieved during the Battle of Britain in 1940, and how despite common belief, the RAF weren’t as outnumbered as everyone thinks…
What was a D-Day parachute jump really like in WWII? Ex-Paratrooper Bruce Crompton and his team attempt to find out. Also in this episode; the team attempts to re-build a WWII Jeep and fit it with a .30 Cal machine gun, Ian fires an M1919 Browning, and the twins take a Daimler Dingo for a test drive.
Adolf Hitler was one of the worlds most evil men, leading Nazi Germany in WWII and bringing about death and destruction, the likes of which the world had never seen. In this telling post-war documentary with contributors such as Hitler's own sister we are able to see behind the dark curtain of his life and see how he rose and fell so dramatically.
In October 1940 President Roosevelt is running for his third term of office. He needs to win the election, and America entering WWII seems all but inevitable. But the US public don't want war. What Japan do next will change all that, entering the US into a war that they didn't want, but in doing so changing the course of history forever.
Over Guadalcanal on August 7th 1942 two of WWII's most famous pilots engaged in a dogfight that would go down in history. Showing mercy to one another in what was a brutal aerial battle, James 'Pug' Southerland and Saburō Sakai sparked one of biggest mysteries of WWII. Why didn't they go in for the kill when they had the chance...? To this day the mystery remains unsolved.
In WWII Gus Maisel and Fred James Steck were enemies. The former a U.S. Army soldier and the latter a German paratrooper. But in 1960s America they are fellow citizens. In this episode of Battleline they look back on their time in combat, realising how close they came to one another in the battle for Sicily in 1943. Also in this episode, two more WWII enemies reflect on their time during one of WWII's most brutal battles, Stalingrad.
The people of Leningrad held out against Hitler's army group north for 872 days. That's almost two and half years. With food in short supply due to Hitler's desire to starve the city to death, citizens had as little as half a piece of bread to live on a day. So how exactly did they survive? In this episode we hear about the Road of Life, the notoriously treacherous ice road out of Leningrad and learn what lengths people really went to just to stay alive in this remarkable story of adversity.
The US Navy wasn't always tasked with destroying U-Boats in WWII. In some cases they were actually instructed to capture them because of the vital information that could be gained by having one in their possession. But this was by no means an easy task. In this episode of Battlezone we see how the US Navy went about these operations and how many men it took to track down and capture one of these famous subs.
In December 1941 Japanese Admiral Yamamoto predicted that if Japan went to war with the US, that they would only last six months. His prediction was incredibly accurate, with the Battle of Midway turning the tide in the Pacific. So what did he know that Japan did not...the power of US industry.
Afghanistan Deployment: Training Modern Soldiers For War | Combat Forces | War Stories
Ronald Reagan narrates in this look at the US Air Force during WWII. Based in East Anglia and other points in the UK, from here they carried out regular missions on German targets. But it's how they coordinated these missions that is so impressive. In these rare archive films we see how one mission is planned and carried out in the attempt to win the war.
The Battle of Kursk was the last major offensive the German army would see on the eastern front in WWII. Despite huge Soviet losses, their ability to replace men with ease, not to mention the power of the feared T-34 tank mean that Kursk became one of the most decisive moments in the war, and in history. Charting the Allied fightback from the Dieppe Raid of 1942 to D-Day and Operation Bagration in 1944, this episode of WWII In Numbers lays out the most crucial points in the last years of WWII.
How Do Modern Soldiers Train For Hand-To-Hand Combat? | Combat Forces | War Stories
In WWII the RAF regularly performed reconnaissance missions on German targets for their bombers. In 1941 the British Crown Film Unit captured this process, from planning to the raid itself. Using real pilots and officers as its cast the film recreates one of these missions. The film went on to win and Academy Award in 1942 for best documentary.
How Did Hitler's Narcissism Bring Down The German Volk? | WWII In Numbers
Why Tanks Are The Steel Fist Of War | Combat Forces | War Stories
German fighter aircraft in WWII were notorious for their ability to hamper Allied bombing missions. So how to stop them? Destroy them at the source. In this episode of Battlezone we see how Allied air operations planned and executed precise bombing missions on the German factories that produced their feared aircraft.
Former WWII Enemies Reunited In The Pacific | Once Were Enemies | War Stories
Modern Warfare: How Soldiers Take A City | Combat Forces | War Stories
In summer of 1942, WWII Soviet Russia was suffering terrible anxiety. With the Soviet-German front extending hundreds of miles from the Arctic Ocean down to the Black Sea, fighting was a constant. But no place was this more fierce than Leningrad. Captured by a total of 150 army cameramen, this film shows what those fateful years on the Volga were really like.
During WWII, the Bismarck was one of the most famous ships in Nazi Germany's Kriegsmarine. Designed to break into the Atlantic and disrupt Allied shipping, its size, reputation and strong defences put fear into the men of the Royal Navy. So how exactly would the Allies manage to track her down and if they did what on earth would take her down...?
Fort Benning: The Largest Paratrooper School In The World | Combat Forces | War Stories
Nazi Germany's desire for world conquest in WWII goes back to 1863 and Otto Von Bismarck. In this public information film called Why We Fight, made and screened during the war, we see just how the Nazis capitalised on this desire and began to take over Europe early on in the war.
In 1812, thirty-six years after the US declaration of independence, the United States declared war on Britain and her territory of Upper Canada. With the British fighting against Napoleon in Europe this territory was poorly defended and vulnerable, with Thomas Jefferson declaring that "victory will be a mere matter of marching".
US Army Basic Training: What Does It Take To Pass? | Combat Forces | War Stories
The city of Nuremberg once symbolised the heart of the Nazi party and its ideals. But by the end of WWII it was in ruins. And it was here that the victorious allies chose to mount the most famous criminal trial in history sentencing Nazi leaders like Hermann Göring, Rudolph Hess and Karl Dönitz to death or long prison terms.
The Crazy Rescue Methods Used For Cold War Agents | Behind Enemy Lines | War Stories
Infantry Fighting Vehicles: The Armoured Chariots Of Battle | Combat Forces | War Stories
When war broke out in Europe in 1914 most Americans paid little notice, with Europe being so far away and seemingly unimportant. Instead they were looking back on a century of progress and prosperity, where their army seemed to big for the little action it saw. But all of this was about to change as we see in this episode of Battlezone.
The Art Of Military Reconnaissance Units | Combat Forces | War Stories
In early 1939, before WWII had begun, America was a young and successful nation that did not want to go to war. Fast forward five years and America would emerge not only with one of the world's strongest armies, but as a leading power on the world stage. Directed by Frank Capra this episode of Why We Fight was one in a series of propaganda films aimed at US soldiers, teaching them about the reasons they were fighting and why they could not afford to lose this war.
How Naval Boarding Parties Hunt Down Pirates | Combat Forces | War Stories
How US Soldiers Use Gaming Simulators To Train For War | Combat Forces | War Stories
How Goering Helped The Germans At Verdun In WWI | Doomsday | War Stories
Patton vs Walter Model: How WWI Shaped These WWII Enemies | Doomsday | War Stories
The Treaty of Versailles, the stock market crash, the rise of the dictator...following WWI a series of significant and precisely timed events led to the outbreak of the Second World War. But could these events have been stopped? And why did they happen? In this episode of Price of Empire we delve deeper into the road to WWII and see where the world went so terribly wrong.
How Hitler Lied To Get Into The German Army | Doomsday | War Stories
Hitler's rise to power in 1933 dismantled democracy. His goal; ultimate domination and a 'Thousand-Year Reich'. But despite being one of the world's most evil men even Hitler needed a dubious 'legal' reason to begin his war. And so in 1939 he fake his casus belli or reason for war. Planting German convicts in Polish uniforms and having them shot. The rest they say is history...But how would the early years of WWII play out and what were some of the key moments that shaped its final years?
At Gallipoli in 1915, the powers of the Oriental empire defeated the most powerful forces of the west. This is a victory where the best navy and the best army in the world were overpowered. But how did it happen? What mistakes were made by the west? And what did the Ottoman empire do right to land such a crushing defeat?
The Manstein Plan came after the initial Nazi Case Yellow or Plan Yellow was lost to the Allies on January 10th 1940, meaning Hitler needed to delay his assault on France. Leading to the Phoney war of 1940 it bought the German army time to rebuild and put a new plan in place, designed by Eric Von Manstein. This aimed to hit through the French lines via the Ardennes, either side of the 3 billion franc Maginot line and the Belgian border. What came next was the capitulation of France.
The events of the First World War and its impact on the 20th century are commemorated and remembered every year, but what is it that we are remembering? A terrible sacrifice? A pointless war? Or the bravery of men and women, remembered in poignant war poetry? In this one off extended cut, The Long Shadow looks back on the events of the war and asks how did they impact the following years of the 20th century, and how has the 20th century and its following events shaped our memory of The Great War.
After Hitler's German army swept across Belgium and France in 1940, Britain was alone and stood on the brink of defeat. But how would they defend themselves and how would they prepare for a possible Nazi invasion...?
In WWII tank commanders were king. And the likes of Patton, Rommel, Montgomery and Michael Wittmann were among the best. From North Africa and the campaigns at Tobruk, El Alamein, and Kasserine Pass to the fields of Northern France after D-Day, this extended cut of Greatest Tank Battles takes us on a journey through WWII and how these fearsome tank commanders succeeded and defeated one another.
It's the Battle of the Atlantic in 1941. The Luftwaffe has been defeated over the skies above Britain. Now its survival is imperiled by the longest campaign of the war, the Battle of The Atlantic. This is the story of the year that would drastically change the war, with events in North Africa, the Balkans, Greece, Crete and the Levant all impacting the years to come. But one word stands out amongst all the events of this year...Barbarossa.
The Black Watch Snipers were some of the finest soldiers in WWII. From D-Day on into the heart of Northern France, Belgium and Germany they fought like no one else and putting themselves in unimaginable danger. In this exclusive episode we hear from the men of the Black Watch as they remember their lives during WWII, and meet up for one last time to see if they've still got what it takes to be a great shot.
Since 1948, fierce tank battles have been fought across the Sinai Peninsula. From the founding of the State of Israel to the Six-Day War and on to the October War of 1973. This episode of Greatest Tank Battles looks at some of these conflicts and takes us on a deep dive into what life was really like for the soldiers who fought there.
The Christmas Truce of 1914 was not only one of WWI's most famous moments, but one of history's also. A widespread ceasefire along different parts of the front, it saw men coming out of their trenches to meet and share stories and souvenirs, bury their dead with dignity, and even play a game of football.
The Vietnam War changed the lives of so many young American men and America itself. But how did these young men find their way to fighting the Viet Cong's advance down the Ho Chi Minh trail, and in one of America's most controversial wars?
At Pearl Harbor in 1941 the outcome of WWII changed forever. With thousands of men signing up to fight following the devastating attack, Japan and the Axis powers would feel the full might of the USA in the years to come.
Before WWII Heinrich Himmler and the Nazi high command went on the hunt for the origins of the Aryan race, to which they saw themselves as direct descendants. Believing that somehow they were descended from the lost city of Atlantis, and the people who had fled from its destruction they find their way to Tibet where they believed there were still traces of Aryan heritage...
What happened to America in the 20th century, and is it on the decline after a meteoric rise to being the worlds most powerful and influential nation? In this one off documentary we take a look back at the last century, of American military actions, American industry and infrastructure, to see where is America today?
In 1942 Hitler's war in Europe had reached its halfway point. Occupying a 10th of the worlds surface, he had gained an Empire. But from here on he would begin to lose it....
The story of Rasputin is legendary. A favourite of the Tsar and Tsarina of Russia, he amazing didn't die from being poisoned, and was eventually shot in the head and found floating in the River Nevka. But does this famous story have a secret? Was it in fact a British agent that pulled the trigger..?
After Operation Barbarossa in 1941, Russia was poised on the edge of an abyss. The Nazi war machine had swept across Russia in an unstoppable wave of tanks, aircraft and highly trained men. Now Moscow and Leningrad were under threat, and the most prized city of all, and the one that held Stalins name...Stalingrad.
When Mussolini came to power in 1933 Hitler has sought close ties with the fascist dictator, knowing that one day he may come in useful. Obsessed with empires, glory and themselves, they seemed a perfect fit. But their supposed pact of steel wouldn't last forever...
Operation Overlord is arguably WWII’s most important Allied offensive. For Hitler it was his worst nightmare. It was the offensive that would turn the tide of history and mark the beginning of the end for the Nazi regime and Hitler’s reich. Led by Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force, Dwight D. Eisenhower and Winston Churchill it would see over 150,000 allied troops enter occupied France, landing on the famous beachheads of Normandy and being dropped behind enemy lines.
Invasion of France, Battle of Kursk, Iwo Jima, Siege of Tobruk, Operation Crusader, Operation Barbarossa, Battle Of The Coral Sea, The Arakan Offensive, Rommel’s Offensives, Invasion of Sicily, The Normandy Landings, The Dunkirk Evacuation, Japanese Invasion Of Malaya, The Battle Of River Plate, Operation Market Garden, Battle Of Syria, The Battle Of Berlin, The Battle Of Stalingrad, The Battle Of Singapore, The Anzio Landing, The Battle Of Monte Cassino, The Battle Of The Philippine Sea and The Battle Of Britain.
Since Stalingrad and Kursk the image of invincibility had faded from the German army. Buoyed by victory a revitalised Red Army began to pay back the Wehrmacht in brutal, swift and ceaseless attacks.
The Battle of France was one of the most defining moments at the start of WWII. With Hitler's blitzkrieg storming through Luxembourg, Belgium and eventually France, the Vichy Government were forced to surrender, with the British being pushed dangerously close to defeat on the beaches of Dunkirk.
In WWII, Hitler's U-Boats wreaked havoc on allied shipping, with Churchill saying after the war "The only thing that ever really frightened me during the war was the U-boat peril." So just how much devastation did they cause and how were the allies able to beat back the dominance of these 'Wolfpacks'...?
In 1945 Allied intelligence hear rumours of a top secret Nazi base near Silesia. The bases name...Der Riese. Here the Nazi high command would attempt to create a wonder weapon. But the true origins of what this was is still being debated today...
After the Battle of France came the Battle of Britain. With British forces licking their wounds after Dunkirk, it was only a matter of time before Hitler launched his invasion on the island nation, in a move that would surely confirm his victory in the war. But Britain wasn't going to give in without a fight...
Prior to WWII, the secret Japanese society known as the League of Blood wanted to start a world war. Little did they know one was just around the corner. But how did they plan to start it? Assassinating Charlie Chaplin of course...
The unfortunate fate of the world's first tank, which failed to make it onto the battlefield, and the case of the Japanese soldier who continued fighting - until 1974.
The true story of Franz Stigler, a German Luftwaffe pilot in the Second World War who risked his own life to save the crew of an American B-17 bomber.
While Nazi scientists were conducting brutal experiments in an attempt to create an Aryan master race, a team of zoologists were overseeing their own bizarre science trials.
A program set up by the Special Operations Executive, the forerunner to MI6, to undermine German and Japanese officers by spraying them with a foul-smelling substance.
Why Hitler had to have this holy Roman artifact, the Göring brother who rescued jews during the Holocaust and the sinister experiments governments carried out on their own people. Learn about all this and more in this episode of World War Weird.
Stuck inside the Sobibor death camp, Leon Feldhendler hatches an escape plan to free himself and hundreds of others from their Nazi oppressors.
The RAF is the oldest independent air force in the world. In its long and illustrious history it's proven to be a decisive factor in many battles. In the latter half of the 20th century the RAF continued to make innovations that maintained its status as one of the deadliest air forces in the world.
Louis Blériot changed the world when he flew across the English Channel in 1909. What was once considered little more than a toy was now seen as an instrument of warfare. The cross channel flight exposed Britain's air vulnerability, and to remedy this they created the world's first independent air force.
Despite it being forbidden for soldiers at the time, Yorkshire man Frank Meakin kept a diary while fighting in the first world war. His words now give us an unprecedented insight into what it was like on the front lines during the Battle of the Somme.
The RAF was in jeopardy following The Great War. Many were questioning the need for a permanent airforce and they had to innovate to prove their worth. The destructive inventions that followed changed warfare forever.
'Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few' - Winston Churchill's immortal words after his country was victorious in the Battle of Britain. In this documentary we dive into the reasons why Hitler and the Nazi Luftwaffe were unable to gain control of the skies.
From ineffective bombing runs in the First World War to flattening entire cities in the Second World War. This is the full story of how bombers developed over time to become the ultimate destructive force from above.
Do you love Battlezone? Well then sit back and settle in for this marathon which takes you through Allied newsreels from 1943 and 1944. In these key years the Allies pushed their advantage and defeat began to feel inevitable for Hitler and Nazi Germany.
The Short S. 25 Sunderland was a British flying boat patrol bomber. Its three decades of service makes it one of the RAF's most successful aircraft.
Whether spies or soldiers, airborne forces are incredibly important. This is the story of how planes were developed to deploy them where they need to be, and then safely retrieve them from hostile environments.
Scarred from the horrors of World War One, many countries came together and founded the League of Nations in 1920. Their principal mission was to maintain world peace, however, their attempts to do so inadvertently made World War Two inevitable.
WWI was the first truly mechanized war. All sides began with strategies from the Napoleonic Wars, resulting in troops being unprepared for the destructive new technologies such as Maxim machine gun and the Mark I Tank.
The North African desert campaign of World War II gave rise to the Desert Rats. Machines in this campaign were the Matilda II tank, Rolls Royce armored car, the Panzer III, 88mm anti-tank gun and the American M3 Grant tank. These war machines were able to prove their worth at the Second Battle of El Alamein.
In WWII, tanks, ships, and aircraft were well known, but there was also a whole fleet of lesser known vehicles such as the Jeep, the amphibious DUKW and a legendary American GI and his Harley motorbike.
In WWI, the Corps of Royal Engineers invented the Geophone, a device to detect enemy tunnelers. In WWII, they drove converted tanks that created bridges and cleared minefields, and made mobile robots that defused bombs.
Hollywood actor Sean Bean tells the story of Waterloo, one of history’s most decisive battles. In this series he draws on the eye-witness accounts of soldiers who fought at Waterloo to tell the story of the dramatic events of 18 June 1815 as they were experienced by the ordinary soldiers who fought it. He pieces together the chronology of the battle and visits some of the legendary places where the outcome was decided, including the buildings at Hougoumont which witnessed some of the heaviest fighting. He also meets descendants of some of the soldiers who fought at Waterloo, to discover how they remember the achievements of their ancestors.
In any war, information is key. Examine the machines used to capture, transmit, and analyze vital combat information, featuring SOE agents and their equipment, spies stealing Royal Navy blueprints, and a daring submarine mission.
During WWII Britain needed to arm itself by any means necessary, with weapons manufacturers and even Winston Churchill being forced to experiment with some crazy ideas. But with the success of inventions like the candy inspired limpet mine, Churchill gave his war time inventors free reign, going on to inspire characters like Q in James Bond.
The Khmer Rouge and the Cambodian civil wars impact on modern day Cambodia is staggering. With active landmines still hidden beneath the landscape, they have changed the lives of so many people, not least children. A result of the the Vietnam War and the rise of the Khmer Rouge, these landmines affect an average of 2.5 people each day, and it is said it will take over 100 years to remove these devastating devices from the country.
WWII 1942: Hitler makes his move on Stalingrad. But before he does he makes the decision that some think to be his worst...splitting up his force. With the Crimea taken he sent army group A along the Black Sea coast, aiming for the oil cities of Maikop, Grozny and Baku, leaving army group B to advance on Stalingrad by themselves.
America's second amendment is notorious for giving its people the right to keep and bear arms. But does it have a place in the 21st century? Looking at the devastating effects of gun violence in America today, Behind The Bullet takes us on a journey through the lives of several individuals whose lives have been touch by effects of firearms, either pulling the trigger, or being on the receiving end of the bullet.
God Of War: The Devastating Airborne Artillery | Combat Forces | War Stories
The warship is one of the most complex pieces of machinery ever made. The pride of any navy, they enable an unrivalled domination of the seas and in turn a domination of the land also. From galley ships of the 17th century to modern day aircraft carriers, we take a look back at over 400 years of naval warships to see just how they were constructed and the lessons they can teach us today.
In WWII Germany and Japan had significant success with their initial offensives. But in 1943 the complexion of the war changed. By the turn of the year the Axis was on the defensive, everywhere. Through 1944 Allied strength would only grow, with the opening of a second front…This is the story of the year that changed WWII.
The Gruelling Life Of A Military Diver | Combat Forces | War Stories
The Gulf War began when Saddam Hussein, President of Iraq launched his troops into Kuwait in August 1990. Spearheaded by 100,000 of his Republican Guard, helicopter gunships, armoured personal carriers, mobile artillery and tanks, the Kuwait army didn’t stand a chance. This triggered the most impressive logistic military operation since WWII, with the US and British Armies immediately sending soldiers out to Saudi Arabia, along with an impressive list of weapons...
After D-Day the Allies had opened the second front on Europe. From here they would begin their breakout from the Normandy beachhead and begin their advance on the Rhine. The Red Army also began Operation Bagration, and in the East the invasion of the Philippines brought the Allies a step closer to the island's home nation. Everywhere the Axis nations were fighting opponents whose only terms were unconditional surrender.
Is This The Worlds Toughest Military Training? | Combat Forces | War Stories
In the Middle East tanks and technology are king, and the sale of them helps keep western arms manufacturers in business. In this episode we take a look at some of the Gulf War's main battle tanks, and the weapons that were sold to middle eastern countries for a high price tag.
WWII in 1944: Hitler’s Nazi Germany is being driven from the lands that they have conquered. And now they face a desperate defence of their own territory, and face the prospect of unconditional surrender…
Precision air strikes have become the big stick of international relations. When diplomacy fails and military action is chosen, the missile strike aircraft is at the centre of combat. Only one country ha the capability to do this on a global scale...America. But how are these aircraft utilised in times of conflict?
The Iraqi invasion of Kuwait pitted the largest army in the Persian gulf against one of the smallest. But when the US led coalition became involved with Operation Desert Shield how would the Iraqi army fair...?
The M1A1 Abrams had advantages in nearly every category over is Iraqi opponent the T-72. It had thicker armour and proved virtually indestructible, with few M1A1’s being hit and not fatalities when they were. And this is all before the 120mm gun and the advanced fire control and system.
When the First World War broke out, no one could have guessed its eventual scale and the impact it would have on the world. But where was the world before war, and what were the military capabilities of its main aggressors when war broke out? A new kind of world and a new kind of war. The Great War In Numbers tells the story of ammunition, guns, ships, aircraft and men that will die in their millions. A war fought by calculating generals for which no cost is too high.
The modern land army's basic combat formation is the division. Ranging from 10,000-20,000, they include infantry, armour, artillery and other supporting arms. With nearly 500 armoured vehicles alongside others, army's like that of the USA are able to take key targets quickly and effectively.
In WWII, victory would only come to whichever side could produce more armaments than the other. At the heart of this battle therefore was the war factory, and leading the charge was America, launching the single greatest program of armament production in human history, swamping the enemy with a tide of mass production.
A new kind of world and a new kind of war. The Great War In Numbers tells the story of ammunition, guns, ships, aircraft and men that will die in their millions. A war fought by calculating generals for which no cost is too high.
Since the end of the Vietnam War American forces enjoyed a period of relative peace. That is until Operation Urgent Fury, when a strange set of circumstances brought elite units into armed conflict in Grenada, the strategically important island that guards the southernmost access to the Caribbean.
During WWII Britain's factories produced no fewer that 20,000 Spitfires and an incredible 130,000 bombers, fighters and other aircraft. British war production was staggering, producing over 100,000 tanks and building more battleships than the United States.
In WWII the city of Detroit, Michigan would save the world from tyranny with its immense scale of mass production. But in 1939 America didn't have an armaments industry at all. So who did it turn to, and how did cities like Detroit help America become the worlds leading military power in only a matter of years...?
The home of the WWII B-24 Bomber, the Willow Run bomber plant in Michigan was the centre of the American war effort. Now largely forgotten the 2 million square foot plant was a powerhouse of production, and a symbol of the economic and industrial revolution that won the allies the war, when Detroit and the factories of the American midwest were the arsenal of democracy.
The First World War transformed Europe. Starting with well dressed infantry advancing behind battle standards. It ended with well equipped infantry following in the wake of machines in the form of tanks. Total war had engulfed Europe and the old ways, and the world would never be the same again.
After the Nazis take over Europe in WWII they take over some of the worlds biggest factories. At the height of their power they control almost one fifth of the world population and almost a third of it's wealth. They should win the war easily...so how did it go wrong...?
In 1945 British and American forces crossed the Rhine and the Red Army were surging over Germany's eastern border, and WWII, which had raged on for over five years was coming to a close. But how would it end? And was it really peace at last...?
During the First Gulf War, coalition forces unleashed a massive assaults on Iraqi forces. At the heart of these attacks was a new weapon....the Tomahawk Missile. But why were these new weapons so effective against the enemy?
In WWII Essen was one of Nazi Germany's many great industrial cities of the Rhur, with the region seeing countless Allied bombing raids that tried to disrupt its immense production lines. It was here where the Nazi's rebuilt their military power and began the war of the factories.
In the First World War, 1916 is the year of Verdun and the killing fields of the Somme, in which millions will die. As a result it is understandable why this year of all others in WWI has been called the descent into hell... A new kind of world and a new kind of war. The Great War In Numbers tells the story of ammunition, guns, ships, aircraft and men that will die in their millions. A war fought by calculating generals for which no cost is too high.
The First World War showed the true horrors of armed conflict in the 20th century. But these horrors weren't just on the front line. The home front had become all encompassed in a foreign war for the first time, with the lives of those left behind utterly changed forever. But what was daily life like for those who experienced it? And what great changes did war bring to civilian life?
In 1916 the First World War casualties were soaring over 5 million. In 1917 ordinary men would say no more. But men would continue to give their lives for the greatest war the world had ever seen. For the Axis powers, and for Germany this meant one thing; an almost certain failure and loss...so how would their army commanders try and steer them back to victory?
On the 27th September 1941 a new kind of ship was being unveiled at the Baltimore docks. They were called Liberty Ships. Playing a key role in WWII, they carried two thirds of all US cargo, helping the allies win the war.
The Falklands War took the lives of 907 people, including British and Argentine soldiers as well as Falklands civilians. In this landmark documentary broadcast five years after the war ended we see just how the war started and the impact it had on so many lives, both in Britain, Argentina and the Falklands Islands themselves.
The remarkable story of how Stalin's massive war factories were dismantled and moved east on one and half million railway trucks, to avoid being lost to the Nazis.
The story of how Israeli secret service agents traveled to South America to assassinate Nazi war criminal Herbert Cukurs. Known as the Hangman of Riga, Cukurs was responsible for the deaths of over 30,000 Latvian Jews.
In this six-part series, War Machines combines archive and original material to tell the amazing, and sometimes amusing, story of man’s determination to kill. This episode focuses on the Grenade Launcher and the long history of personal under-barrel ordnance at hand.
The Humvee remains one of America's most versatile mobile military vehicle; but the history of the armored truck and armored vehicles in general, has played an absolutely vital role in the military success of America and the West...
Married Nazi Hunters Beate and Serge Klarsfeld relentlessly chase Klaus Barbie across continents to make him pay for his crimes. Dubbed the "Butcher of Lyon" the Gestapo chief committed several atrocities during the Second World War.
In this six-part series, War Machines combines archive and original material to tell the amazing, and sometimes amusing, story of man’s determination to kill. This episode focuses on humanities quest to rule the waves as we look at some of the greatest battleships, submarines and aircraft carriers in history.
Tuesday, 6 June 1944, the day of the Allied invasion of Normandy better known as D-Day. It was the largest seaborne invasion in history and it is one of WW2's most famous events. However, if it wasn't for a particular weather forecast D-Day, and as a result the entire war, could have gone very differently.
While on the hunt for SS officer Reinhard Kopps in Argentina, American journalists caught wind of another notorious Nazi in the area; Erich Priebke. As the Gestapo's second in command in Rome, Priebke was responsible for the Ardeatine massacre, one of worst atrocities in Italian history.
One of the most successful fighter planes of all time, the American made McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle has never been shot down after half a century of service.
From Robert Nobel to Adolf Hitler, the oil fields of Baku have long been sought after. They've played a pivotal role in revolutions and world wars, learn about that and more in this instalment of War Factories.
Dubbed the Angel of Death, infamous Nazi physician Josef Mengele carried out horrific and deadly experiments on the prisoners at Auschwitz. He would also administer the gas and select the victims for the gas chambers. Despite the atrocities he committed, Josef escaped justice after the war and fled to South America. This is the story of the Nazi Hunters who tried to right that wrong.
Married Nazi Hunters Serge and Beate Klarsfeld were relentless in their pursuit of gustapo chief Kurt Lischka. From attempted kidnappings to explosive chocolates, they faced many twists and turns in their efforts to deliver justice.
The Volkswagen Beetle is one of the best selling cars of all time. Created by Ferdinand Porsche, it's beloved for its cute and cheerful charm. However, behind its disarming appeal, 'The People's Car' has a dark and sinister history.
"The enemy has begun to employ a new and most cruel bomb, the power of which to do damage is, indeed, incalculable" - The words of Japanese Emperor Hirohito after nuclear weapons were used on Nagasaki and Hiroshima. Some of the worlds greatest minds came together in the early 1940's to work on the Manhattan Project. What they created was a weapon so unrivalled in its destructive capacity, that it changed the world forever.
French Nazi collaborator Paul Touvier earned the moniker "hangman of Lyon" for the crimes he committed against his fellow countrymen. With the help of the Catholic Church he was able to escape justice for 40 years, but how long will he last with Nazi Hunters on his trail?
From humble beginnings of early prototypes meant to breach trenches during the Great War, to modern-day mobile fortresses with advanced targeting systems, we take a look at the history of tank development in the American military.
Fiat founder Giovanni Agnelli was a close associate of Benito Mussolini and together they helped the manufacturing company become one of the largest in the world. However, it wasn't to last and with the advent of the second world war it all started to tumble down for the pair.
Having recovered from the surprise attack on Pearl Harbour a few years prior, America were now ready to take the fight to Japan. This led to 5 major 'carrier-versus-carrier' engagements, the last of which was The Battle of the Philippine Sea. Japan had the better planes, but America had the superior pilots. What followed was an American victory so dominant that the aerial part of the battle was dubbed the Great Marianas Turkey Shoot.
The Avro Lancaster bomber is one of the most iconic planes in British history. It was the plane chosen to carry out Operation Chastise - also known as the Dambusters Raid. Britain wanted to destroy German dams, but they were protected from torpedos and too narrow a target to bomb from the above. However, Barnes Wallis realized that if a bomb could bounce along the surface of the water, the dams could be destroyed.
Two of the most famous gun manufacturers of all time, Colt and Kalashnikov have both left their mark on the world. Samuel Colt is possibly the true father of mass production, and his gun factories changed the whole US Army. The robust Avtomat Kalashnikova - otherwise known as the AK-47 - enabled revolutions all over the world.
The development of Barnbow Munitions Factory was a turning point for Britain in WW1. At the start of the war they were struggling desperately to supply their front lines with artillery shells. Barnbow and the introduction of women into the workforce turned that around and set the allied forces up for victory.
The Attack on Pearl Harbor took place on December 7th, 1941. The attack crippled the US navy, but once they were able to recover the tide quickly turned against the Japanese.
The Search For Hitler's Colossal Sunken Plane | Hitler's Mega Plane | War Stories
Paper Lanterns is the story of atomic bomb survivor, Shigeaki Mori, and his life long calling to tell the story of Normand Brissette, Ralph Neal and the ten other American POWs killed by the bombing of Hiroshima.
Codenamed Operation Watchtower, the Guadalcanal campaign was the first major land offensive by Allied forces against the Empire of Japan. It was a crucial battle that neither side could afford to lose, and this is reflected in the bloodshed.
During the middle of WWII in 1943, the end was in sight for the Allied leaders. With this, thoughts turned to the post war age, and what would happen to the world the war left behind. Over a series of conferences these great leaders changed the fate of the world forever.
By 1960, one of the world's most notorious Nazi war criminals, Adolf Eichmann, is living incognito with his family on the outskirts of Buenos Aires under the alias Riccardo Klement. Known as the architect of Hitler's 'final solution' and directly culpable for the murder of six million Jews, the former Lieutenant Colonel of the SS is now himself a hunted man.
On April 22, 1915 at the Second Battle of Ypres, a strange gas floated across the battlefield. Believing the descending cloud to be a smokescreen, the French and Algerian Troops took no precautions to protect themselves. 5,000 soldiers became the first to lose their lives to a modern chemical weapon and 15,000 others were injured. Since then - and despite being prohibited in 1925 by the Geneva Protocol - chemical weapons have been used to devastating effect many more times.
After surviving multiple concentration camps, Simon Wiesenthal dedicated decades of his life to Nazi Hunting. In this episode we watch him hunt down SS Commander Franz Stangl and his deputy Gustav Wagner, otherwise known as 'The Beast'. During their time at the Sobibor extermination camp, the pair were responsible for thousands of murders.
Do you love Battlezone? Well then sit back and settle in for this marathon which takes you through Allied newsreels from 1943 and 1944. In these key years the Allies pushed their advantage and defeat began to feel inevitable for Hitler and Nazi Germany.
When Hirohito became Emperor of Japan in 1926, the program for extending Japan's rule began to gain momentum. Initially their aggression brought them a lot of success, but the empire's days were numbered once the major global powers got involved.
He was nicknamed ‘The Man With The Iron Heart’ by Hitler, and was tipped to be his successor. But on the 27th May 1942, Reinhard Heydrich was mortally injured in Prague by Czechoslovak resistance operatives Jozef Gabčík and Jan Kubiš as part of Operation Anthropoid.
Despite being dismissed as a quack by Göring and Himmler, Hitler was enamoured with his personal doctor Theodor Morell. However, was the Führer's faith justified? Some historians believe the Morell's treatments did more harm than good.
7 December 1941, the day Japan attacked Pearl Harbor. The attack brought America into the Second World War and ultimately doomed Japan and the other Axis powers. But why did Japan feel the attack was necessary?
American Soldiers fighting in the Aleutian Islands Campaign during the Second World War were subjected so brutal conditions. Harsh winters have been the undoing of many powerful armies in the past, how were the American's able to adapt?
U-Boat ace Friedrich Guggenberger gained notoriety in 1941 when he sank the British aircraft carrier, HMS Ark Royal. He would continue to terrorise the Allies in the water for the next couple years, but eventually they started to hunt him down.
After 3 months of battle, America surrendered Bataan to the Japanese. What followed was the forcible transfer of 60,000-80,000 American and Filipino prisoners of war. The horrific treatment of the prisoners led to the transfer being dubbed the Bataan Death March.
The New Guinea campaign was a key element of the Pacific War with lots of island hopping. The Japanese lands on the island and entrench themselves there early in 1942. They attack Milne Bay with an amphibious force, but they are beaten back by allied forces. Australian forces drive across the mountainous island and eventual meet up with U.S. soldiers. Slowly, they move through the northern part of the island defeating the Japanese at Lae and the Bismarck Sea.
In the last weeks of the Third Reich, the Nazi regime goes about hiding their immense riches in the Alps, but was this 'Alpine Fortress' an elaborate bluff or a serious plan for future Nazi resurgence? What happened to the hidden Nazi treasure? Was this home to a Nazi wonder weapon? We follow the trail of these old mysteries and uncover what happened in the turbulent last days of the Third Reich.
The balance began to shift in the Allies favor in 1943. Axis defeat in Tunisia and the rugged defense of Stalingrad dealt huge blows to Hitler and Nazi Germany. Meanwhile, Allied forces fought back against the Japanese in the Pacific Theatre and the Allied invasion of Sicily (Operation Hsuky) spelled the end for Mussolini's fascist rule.
The island hopping strategy brought American forces to the Marshall Islands in 1944. Facing fierce Japanese defenses, American soldiers feared a repeat of Tarawa. Meanwhile General Douglas MacArthur oversees the brutal Bougainville campaign.
On the 17th of August, 1987, Hitler's former deputy Rudolf Hess commits suicide in prison, marking the end of a life of mystery and intrigue. We investigate some of the riddles still surrounding Hess. What motivated him to single-handedly fly to Scotland? Did he want to make peace with the UK? And Hess's last mystery: did he really kill himself, or was he murdered?
After a year of Allied success - including the Normandy landings on D-Day - Hitler was getting desperate. With France liberated and the allies bearing down on Germany, the Fuhrer launched a final all out counter offensive. This developed into the Battle of the Bulge; Hitlers final attempt to end the war on the western front.
The battle of Peleliu saw some of the bloodiest fighting during the Mariana and Palau Islands campaign. The worst of the fighting could be found at Bloody Nose Ridge where the Japanese tried to repel wave after wave of American forces.
As World War II dragged on, American scientists worked feverishly under the Manhattan Project to develop the first atom bomb. One Nazi leader saw the potential of this powerful weapon to win the war in Europe. According to new documents from a Soviet spy, Hitler's forces tested a nuclear weapon just before the war ended in 1945. How far did the Germans really get?
On April 30th 1945 and with Soviet forces closing in, Adolf Hitler committed suicide. Soon after Germany surrendered, and the only Axis power left standing was the Japanese Empire. Rather than risk a land invasion that could cost millions of lives, the US unleashed a never before seen power on Hiroshima and Nagasaki that brought the bloodiest war in history to an end.
After suffering defeat at Corregidor in 1942, General Douglas MacArthur had to flee the Philippine island. However, not willing to give up he boldly declared, "I came through and I shall return". Come 1944, it was time to make good on his promise.
After World War II rumours persisted that the mountains of southwest Poland held a precious secret— a mysterious train laden with tons of gold, rare jewels and priceless art hidden by the Nazis in a secret labyrinth of tunnels. When 2015 two treasure hunters claimed that they had located “Hitler’s Gold Train” in the area of Walbrzych, the news made headlines all over the world. But what is the truth behind the alleged discovery? This documentary is looking for answers.
In 1944, the British considered assassinating Adolf Hitler. But then they decided that he was such a useless warlord, he was more useful alive than dead. The "Halt Order" at dunkirk, the Battle of Britain, and Operation Barbarossa all rank among the most disastrous decisions taken by Hitler.
With an estimated 240,931 casualties, the Battle of Okinawa between the United States and Japan was the deadliest conflict of WWII's Pacific theatre. The overwhelming majority of those losses came from the Japanese side as the US scored a crucial victory in 1945.
The Battle of Stalingrad, the offensive at Kursk and the Battle of the Ardennes all rank among the most disastrous decisions taken by Hitler. As his blunders piled up the Second World War gradually started to turn against the tyrant.
The Haida's naval supremacy made them the dominant force in the Pacific Northwest for generations. However, after the Europeans arrived in the 18th century their continued existence was under threat.
Louis Riel and rebel Métis would stun the upstart Canadian government with a violent uprising. Dismissed and dispossessed, the Metis would fight to secure a place in their own homeland. The Canadian troops had superior weapons, but the Métis knew the land.
Military historian Norm Christie examines the First World War from a Canadian perspective. He's on a journey that will take him through the the Battle of the Ypres to the Battle of Vimy Ridge as he follows the life of General Sir Arthur Currie. He rose through the ranks to lead the Canadian Corps to several victories during the conflict that began in 1914, however, over the years his story has been forgotten.
Once the Cree and their allies dominated the western fur trade. Sustained by the buffalo. By 1885, their decline meant disaster and starvation. Betrayed by Ottawa, who offered peace and food for land, the Cree would make a valiant last stand to save their people's future.
Of the 60,000 Canadian soldiers who perished during WW1, 20,000 are missing. Military historian Norm Christie is on a mission to track down these men, uncover their stories, and put a name to their grave. From Vimy Ridge to the Somme, Norm's journey will take him across many of the key battlefields from the Great War's western front.
The Secret Life Of A WW2 Spy | Secrets Of War | War Stories
In 1812, the American army marched on British Canada. Facing impossible odds, General Isaac Brock needed allies to push back the invasion. He would find one in Tecumseh, a legendary hero fighting for a nation of his own.
What really happened during WW1? This full series supercut will take you from the trenches of the Somme to the poison gas clouds at Ypres as it breaks down down the catastrophic loss of life sustained during the First World War.
One of the legacies of WW1's western front are the hundreds of war cemeteries that mark the old battlefields. As no remains could be repatriated these cemeteries are time capsules that allow us to understand the grief and sacrifice of that period. Norm explains how these incredible cemeteries came about and what each grave and each cemetery tells us about the First World War.
How The Allies Hunted Down U-Boat Wolfpacks | Secrets Of War | War Stories
Norm Christie concludes his examination of the First World War's Western Front, as he recalls one of the largest peacetime armada in Canadian history when, in 1936, more than 50,000 veterans travelled to Normandy for the unveiling of the war memorial at Vimy Ridge, created in tribute to the lives lost in the conflict.
Outnumbered and outgunned RAF Fighter Command were the last line of defence in pushing back the Luftwaffe and Hitler’s invasion of Britain in 1940. In this full series supercut we see what it was like during the battle for Britain’s skies and how the RAF held on and repelled German attacks.
With the controversial 2022 Qatar World Cup underway we're taking a look back at one of the most scandalous sporting events in history. This is the story of the 1936 Olympics in Berlin and how Nazi Germany took advantage of the event for propaganda purposes.
In this BBC Documentary historian David Reynolds reassesses Stalin’s role in the life and death struggle between Germany and Russia in World War Two, which he argues was ultimately more critical for British survival than ‘Our Finest Hour’ in the Battle of Britain itself
One hundred years of naval aviation, from wobbly gliders and the first shipboard landing in 1911, to modern supersonic jets and unmanned aerial vehicles. The film follows young men and women earning their wings by learning to take off and land a supersonic aircraft on the deck of an aircraft carrier in the middle of the ocean. This film explores how naval aviation has changed the face of war.
The Cold War was a deadly game in the depths of the oceans. More than 20 collisions between American and Soviet submarines are only the tip of the iceberg as far as these secret operations are concerned. The underwater interface was perhaps the most merciless frontier between East and West. This documentary reveals previously unknown information from the military apparatus of both sides, and shows that submarines continue to be an important weapon in the espionage war even today.
The Livens Large Gallery Flame Projector was a 60 foot behemoth that could engulf targets 300 feet away in flames. The terrifying weapon was deployed at the Battle of the Somme, one of the bloodiest battles of the First World War.
In part two of Angle Of Attack, we chronicle the 100-year history of Naval aviation — from wobbly gliders and the shipboard landing in 1911 to modern supersonic jets and unmanned aerial vehicles. The documentary deftly interweaves archival footage, interviews with historical and military experts, contemporary footage of cutting-edge aircraft and insights from today's "Top Gun" fighter pilots in the Marine Corps and Navy.
Throughout 1941, the Soviet Union had been losing city after city to Nazi Germany. This all changed when Hitler set his sights on Leningrad. Despite laying siege to the city and starving its citizens for 872 days, Hitler's army could not capture the city. What was it that made Leningrad so incredibly resilient?
In part two of this Time Team special, Tony Robinson has been joined by the British Royal Engineers as they tried to rebuild and test the world's largest ever flamethrower. The Livens Large Gallery Flame Projector was a 60 foot behemoth that could engulf targets 300 feet away in flames. The terrifying weapon was deployed at the Battle of the Somme, one of the bloodiest battles of the First World War.
Operation Valkyrie: The Plot To Kill Hitler is the definitive film on Claus Schenk Graf von Stauffenberg and the ‘Valkyrie’ conspiracy to assassinate Hitler on 20th July, 1944. Produced in collaboration with the official German Foundation dedicated to the memory of the conspirators, it features testimonials and eyewitness accounts from all of the aristocratic families involved in the plot, including the last living conspirator to escape Hitler’s wrath, and Maria Countess von Stauffenberg who knew Claus all her life.
Over 75 years ago, 1,177 men lost their lives on the USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The ship, underwater, is a shrine and monument, visited by tourists, and the families of those who perished.
Stalin's Secret War: How The Man Of Steel Ruled From The Shadows | Secrets Of War | War Stories
After the Allied catastrophe at Dunkirk in 1940, Britain begins a daring program of training select troops to strike fast and deep behind enemy lines. These troops were called the Commandos, and they were characterised by their unequivocal acceptance that one day, they would die for their country.
America’s Secret Weapon In The War Against Japan | Secrets Of War | War Stories
At the height of the cold war, a tank standoff at Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin threatened to trigger an all out nuclear war. In this documentary, we examine the machines on the ground that day the as well as the machines that were built to fight in a world ravaged by nuclear weapons.
The Vietnam War. The Americans used their abundance of jet fighters, helicopters, and river patrol boats to try and stop the continuous stream of supplies and North Vietnamese fighters coming down the trail.
The Cold War. East and West developed weapons that could destroy the world. Examine the origins of the Arms Race and the first use of nuclear weapons that ended World War II, featuring, amongst others, the Titan II Intercontinental Ballistic Missile and the Corona spy satellite.
The first of this four part series begins in the Second World War, in jungles of the Pacific. As Japan shocks the world with the speed of its advance, the Allies scramble to halt what seems to be an unstoppable force. Amidst it all, the men on the ground struggle with another far more formidable opponent - the jungle itself.
By the end of 1942 the tide of the war in the Pacific is turning. Guadalcanal and the island hopping campaigns shift the balance as the Allies advance toward victory over Japan. We explore the aftershocks of the Second World War as new leaders applied jungle warfare tactics to new struggles for independence in the Malayan Emergency and the First Indochina War.
Part 3 of this 4 part series begins with Konfrontasi - a conflict between Indonesia and Malaysia which centres on fighting in the jungles of Borneo. We then turn to what was arguably the most televised jungle war in history, the Second Indochina War, known in Vietnam as the American War. A war in which the US sought to stand as the 'guardians at the gate' against the spread of communism in South East Asia.
Explore the final years of the war in Vietnam, which saw the United States and her Allies confront the brutal realities of loss and withdrawal from a jungle war.
During the Second World War, the allies' key objective was to crack the German army's encrypted communications code. Without a doubt, the key player in this game was Alan Turing, an interdisciplinary scientist and a long-forgotten hero.
In the final year of WWI, Allied forces faced the daunting task of breaking through the heavily fortified Hindenburg Line. Among them were the ANZACs, who played a crucial role in the decisive assault that ultimately led to victory. Facing fierce resistance and overwhelming odds, the ANZACs fought with unparalleled bravery and determination, overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles to achieve victory.
Nearing the end of The Great War, Germany decided to pool all of its resources for a hue offensive to try and win the war before America joined the conflict. This huge offensive was very ambitious and the daring plan at first seemed to work. However this offensive would prove to be their undoing.
In this episode, the history hunters dive into the personal archive of decorated RAF pilot, Group Captain Peter Casement. By looking at his diaries, photos and mementos we can piece together what life was like for a WW2 pilot.
In this episode, the history hunters come across an auction for a collection of items belonging to a WW1 pilot. The items were found in a house clearance and tell the incredible story that was destined to be thrown away.
From the brutal street-to-street fighting in Stalingrad to the final battle in Berlin, we delve into the key battles of the Second World War that brought the downfall of Hitler and the Nazi regime.
In this episode, the History Hunters take a closer look at the iconic Pickelhaube helmets worn by German soldiers at the start of World War I and a Spitfire exhaust that was discovered buried under sand.
In this episode, the History Hunters uncover a huge haul of more than a thousand medals. By sorting through this collection, they find some amazing stories behind medals awarded from the Victorian to the present day.
In this episode, the History Hunters take a look at a Blunderbuss, the Sawback Bayonet and other rare military antiques.
In this episode, the History Hunters take to the antiques markets to find interesting and unique objects that tell us interesting stories about the past. What will they find and what hidden history will these items hide?
Germany had very few geopolitical allies leading into World War II. For various reasons, these alliances were doomed to fail from the outset, and Germany would ultimately pay dearly for the partnerships they forged with the Axis Powers.
Step into the heroic footsteps of the "Big Red One," the legendary 1st Infantry Division of the U.S. Army. Their relentless presence during WW2 was felt everywhere from the North African to the beaches of Normandy.
Throughout the Second World War, Hitler was obsessed with the idea of a "Wunderwaffe", or wonder-weapon. This obsession led to Germany having some of the most advanced weaponry and vehicles on the battlefield, however, was this focus actually detrimental to their war effort?
The 1st Airborne Division also known as the "Red Devils" were an elite fighitng force in WW2. This documentary looks at how a similar German unit inspired the creation of the 1st Airborne and how they became one of the bravest units of WW2.
The Pacific Theatre of WW2 was fought over a huge area of sea and islands in the Pacific Ocean. This unique terrain meant that most battles depended on naval and aerial operations as oppose to ground operations. These 3 documentaries take a look at 3 important aerial operations of the conflict and how they affected the outcome of the war.
Did Hitler's heavy narcotic use play a role in his murderous regime, as well as fuel an already delusional character? Did Hitler's appetite for mind-altering substances give the Allies crucial leverage to defeat the Nazi regime?
After Mussolini's forces proved to be too weak to stop the British Eighth Army (the Desert Rats), Hitler was forced to send in the Afrika Korps, under Erwin Rommel (the Desert Fox), as reinforcements.
During the Second World War, Germany unleashed some of the largest guns the world has ever seen. However, these giant weapons were as flawed as they were powerful. Could they have actually harmed the Nazi war effort?
Hitler, Goering, Goebbels, Himmler and Borrmann. These are some of the most infamous men of the Nazi Regime, yet it was their own selfishness and dysfunction that left their grand vision in ruin at the climax of the Second World War.
The 101st Airborne Division, otherwise known as "The Screaming Eagles" or "The Band of Brothers" were integral to the allied strategy in WW2. Known for their daring parachute jumps into enemy territory, their unparalleled bravery wrote their name into the history books. This documentary takes a look at the history of the unit as well as some of their most daring missions.
In a world of rapidly changing technology, the concept of stealth in warfare has changed significantly since WW2. This documentary delves into the world of covert operations and strategic strikes, the range of stealth technology, from the simple concept of camouflage suit, to radar-reduction capabilities.
In pursuit of their Aryan dream, the Nazis were encumbered by an ideological war from within that would undermine their ability to succeed in World War II, and ultimately led to the deaths of millions of the world's citizens.
Explore the origins of America's elite special operations soldiers, the Rangers. Trace their formation back to the early days of the war and delve into their most famous battles, such as the assault on Pointe du Hoc during the Normandy Invasion, the intense firefight at Brest, and the arduous campaign in Italy. Witness the audacious missions and incredible achievements that cemented the Rangers' legacy as an elite force.
The US Eighth Air Force are a unit that will live on in infamy. A unit that saw some of the fiercest aerial fighting of WW2 and proved themselves time and time again. This documentary tells their story through the words of seasoned veterans who served in its ranks.
With the increasing destructive output of weapons, countermeasures had to be developed. As the nature of ware has changed over time, we see modern applications of destructive measures in smaller-scale developments.
From the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor that began the war, to the Battle of Midway that saw the tide turn in America's favour, and finally to the Battle of Okinawa and the last major conflict of the war. This Battles Won & Lost compilation brings you the pivotal battles and moments that ultimately led to the Allied victory in the Pacific Theater of World War II.
From the game-changing Higgins Boat to the M2 Bradley tank and the Black Hawk helicopter, uncover the story of the remarkable vehicles that transformed warfare for the US Military.
Maneuverability, speed, and efficiency. The pace of tactical responses, button-click warfare, and lightning-fast strikes are all defined by developments in the agility of machinery. This machinery has evolved to such a degree through the pressure of global warfare, that it is almost unrecognisable today.
From the simple yet devastating canons that wrecked havoc during WW1, to the self-propelled howitzers that annihilate the battlefield today, we take a look at how artillery has evolved over the years.
Germany had very few geopolitical allies leading into World War II. For various reasons, these alliances were doomed to fail from the outset, and Germany would ultimately pay dearly for the partnerships they forged with the other Axis Powers.
For the first three years of the war, the U.S. Infantry had two very different missions to win 'Hearts & Minds' and to 'Search & Destroy'. Join U.S. combat cameramen as they are choppered in alongside the troops to capture the fighting on assault operations including Starlight, Cedar Falls and Masher.
On January 30, 1968, the Viet Cong launched the massive Tet offensive, including an audacious attack on the American Embassy in Saigon. Unearthed from secret film archives, this series unveils never-before-seen footage captured by American military cameramen. With access to 20,000 unedited reels the raw and unfiltered reality of the war is revealed.
Using never before seen footage from the Vietnam War, this documentary looks at the complicated lives of American soldiers fighting the conflict. Often fighting a war they didn't understand that was strongly opposed by their fellow countrymen, soldiers had to juggle the issue of morality along with processing the horrific things they saw every day.
Off the northern coast of Ireland, a massive shipwreck has laid unseen for decades. Now that divers are finally able to reach her, they can uncover the secret of how the HMS Audacious met her bitter end in World War I.
On June 6th 1944 the Allies landed their forces in occupied Europe, signalling the beginning of the final phase of WW2. This also signalled to the long suffering French resistance to step up their guerrilla war against the Nazi invaders, knowing that help would soon be on the way.
Operation Fortitude - Churchill's ingenious idea to create a fake invasion force, comprised of inflatable tanks, ships and trucks, designed to outwit Hitler. This covert plan aimed to lead German forces to expect an Allied invasion at Calais, diverting attention from the true target – Normandy.
After the fall of the Soviet Union, many countries remained in dispute in the early nineties, despite eastern Europe's independence. In 1994 a bitter conflict broke out between the forces of the Chechnen independence movement and the Russian regular army. Despite overwhelming manpower, weaponry, and air support, the Russian forces were unable to establish effective permanent control over the mountainous area due to many successful Chechen guerrilla raids. Improvised Explosive Devices were one of the most effective methods employed in these disastrous raids and were the back drop to many close quarter battle scenarios exchanged between the two sides.
During the Vietnam War, the U.S. dropped more than 2.5M tons of ordnance on Laos during - equal to a planeload of bombs every eight minutes, 24 hours a day, for nine years – making Laos the most heavily bombed country per capita in history. Australian bomb disposal specialist Laith Stevens has to train a new young "big bomb" team to deal with bombs left from the US "Secret War", but meanwhile, the local children are out hunting for bomb scrap metal. Vividly depicting the consequences of war with the incredible bravery of those trying to clear up the mess.
After the disaster that was the Gallipoli campaign, the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps found themselves in Europe joining the western front to fight against the German forces. In this documentary, two Australian military experts explore the battlefields of the Western Front to take a deep dive into the history ANZAC units and their contribution to the greater picture of WW1.
In the final year of WWI, Allied forces faced the daunting task of breaking through the heavily fortified Hindenburg Line. Among them were the ANZACs, who played a crucial role in the decisive assault that ultimately led to victory. Facing fierce resistance and overwhelming odds, the ANZACs fought with unparalleled bravery and determination, overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles to achieve victory.
In 1942 the commandos were tasked with carrying out Operation Chariot, a raid on the French docks at St. Nazaire. St Nazaire was so heavily defended, this operation was believed to be a suicide mission, however, it turned out to be the most successful raid of the war.
Cold War Espionage: The Secret War Between The CIA And KGB | Secrets Of War | War Stories
Experience the gripping tales of Britain's SAS through daring desert raids. Follow elite soldiers behind enemy lines, witnessing their bravery and resourcefulness in high-stakes missions amidst the crucible of war.
The story of the Korean War is told through powerful color imagery, dramatic musical score and sound-scape. In the first episode, the summer of 1950 sees the people of Korea trapped in the vice-like grip of the beginnings of the Cold War, as the two new superpowers of the postwar world flex their muscles--the United States and the Soviet Union.
Experience the turmoil and resilience of London during World War II in this powerful documentary. From the bombings of the Blitz to the heroism of the city's residents, this video takes a closer look at one of the darkest periods in London's history. Witness first-hand accounts and archival footage as we delve into the daily struggles and remarkable spirit of the Londoners who faced the relentless bombing campaign.
Join Guy Martin as he takes a closer look at the intense and brutal training that the D-Day paratroopers went through in preparation for the Normandy invasion. This video features footage of the training exercises as well as interviews with veterans who recount their own experiences. Guy Martin hopes to complete this training in order to pull off his own sky dive into the Normandy countryside.
While the diplomats wrangle and the negotiators argue, the fighting in the blighted Korean countryside continues. Towns and villages lay in ruins, the hillsides and valleys are scarred by bomb craters, as negotiators attempt to handle the sensitive issue of the repatriation of prisoners of war.
On 15 September 1916 at Flers-Courcelette during the Battle of the Somme, Britain unveiled their secret weapon. A fleet of giant metal monsters swept over the battlefield and the world was introduced to the tank. In this documentary, Guy Martin looks at how this invention changed the course of the First World War.
In 1937, the Imperial Japanese Army invaded the Republic of China and a bloodbath followed. 27 brave foreign men and women stayed in a heroic effort to help the people and their incredible efforts helped save 250,000 lives. This series investigates the heroic acts of this small group of foreigners who witnessed one of the twentieth century’s forgotten massacres.
Historian, Norm Christie, examines the old battlefields, visiting the cemeteries and memorials that hold the secrets to the legacy and sacrifices of the Canadians in the Battles of Mount Sorrel and Hill 70. These two battles cost Canada 5,000 dead, but few remember what their names. They were two vital battles that contributed to the ongoing development of the Canadian Corps.
By looking through secret footage that was taken by Hermann Goering, we're able to take a deep dive into the life of one of the most prominent figures of the Nazi Party. From his early days as a WW1 pilot to his rise to power as Hitler's right-hand man, we examine Goering's key role in the establishment and operation of the Nazi regime. We also explore his downfall, eventual capture by the Allies at the end of WWII and how he met his end during the Nuremberg trials.
This powerful documentary examines the devastating events that took place in Nanjing, China during the Second Sino-Japanese War. From the causes leading up to the massacre to the aftermath, this video sheds light on the horrific events that resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians. Join us as we delve into the reasons behind the Nanjing Massacre and its impact on history.
Explore the complex and ever-changing relationship between Hitler and Stalin during World War II. From their initial cooperation to Hitler's largest military blunder, Operation Barbarossa. This video delves into the power struggle between the two dictators and how their actions shaped the course of the war. With extensive research and analysis, this video provides a comprehensive examination of the relationship between Hitler and Stalin during one of the most defining moments in history.
In 1939, WW2 unleashed a new type of warfare upon the world, mechanized warfare. The infamous Blitzkrieg tore through Europe, easily sweeping aside outdated tactics from the Allies. This documentary tracks the origins of this mechanized terror to The Great War. We take a look at how the messy nature of WW1 gave birth to the horror of the lightning war and how it was unleashed.
In the public eye, Churchill and Roosevelt held an unbreakable partnership. The two leaders used this to unite their nations and stand up to the riptide of global fascism. However, behind the scenes these iconic allies were far from the best of friends. Secrecy and distrust formed a rift between them that would persist throughout WW2.
Soldiers had to endure horrific conditions while living in the trenches during WW1. This documentary delves into the Battle of the Somme and how the constant threat of enemy attacks, disease, and living in cramped, unsanitary conditions for extended periods took a physical and mental toll on those involved.
Churchill v Stalin delves into the rivalry between the British and Russian leaders as they contended for influence over the future of Europe after the war. Throughout this intense struggle, Roosevelt played a behind-the-scenes role by covertly intervening to sway the final decision in a way that Churchill was unaware of. This resulted in a clandestine power struggle that took place among these three prominent leaders.
By 1915, WW1 was well underway. Fighting on the western front had become bogged down to a stalemate which inspired many daring tactical endeavours to get the war moving. One of these was Churchill's idea for the Gallipoli campaign, which didn't have the desired effect.
Pershing’s Paths of Glory is a celebratory presentation of contemporary inspiration and American history. It combines the past glory and achievements of GENERAL JOHN J. PERSHING (1860-1948) with his modern day impact upon young Americans. Inspired by Pershing’s numerous civil and military accomplishments, a diverse group of young American cadets follow his global footsteps learning why his leadership still influences our society today.
The Battle of Rorke's Drift saw 150 British soldiers defend a mission station against a force of over 3,000 Zulu warriors. Against all odds, the British were able to hold off the Zulus and defend their position throughout the night.
What Makes Special Forces Training So Demanding? | Close Quarter Battle | War Stories
In the 1930s, civil war tore through Spain. The left leaning Republicans flight against the far right forces of dictator Francisco Franco in a huge clash of ideologies that would determine the fate of the country for decades to come. This documentary looks at the huge mix of left leaning groups that made up the Republican force and how they united for a common cause.
Since being introduced in WW1, the tank changed war forever. However one tank was at the forefront of a revolution in modern warfare, the Panzer. Leading the relentless charge of Blitzkrieg, the Panzer is responsible for some of the most innovative military tactics of the 20th century.
How Did US Special Forces Adapt To Russian Guerrilla Fighting? | Close Quarter Battle | War Stories
In June 1944, the Allies carried out the D-Day Invasion which led to the liberation of France from Nazi occupation during World War II. British General Bernard Montgomery played a pivotal role in Operation Overlord and we follow his journey from the beaches of Normandy to the Battle for Caen and Operation Goodwood.
Operation Just Cause: The Inside Story | Close Quarter Battle | War Stories
Despite Germany conquering most of Europe by 1940, the allies weren't going down without a fight. While they prepared themselves for the launching of an invasion of Europe, they ran daring bombing raids in the heart of Germany to strike back and disrupt the Nazi operations. This documentary looks at the evolution of military air power and how the allies used this to their advantage.
Eric Brown was a navel officer and test pilot born in 1919. He was an amazing pilot and holds records for the most types of aircraft flown, most carrier take offs and landings. In this documentary Eric tells his amazing stories from WW2 and even his help test flying supersonic aircraft.
Why Snipers Are The Most Feared Soldiers On The Battlefield | Close Quarter Battle | War Stories
During the Battle of the Leyte Gulf on October 25, 1944, Japan resorted to drastic measures as they tried to turn the tide of WW2. When Japanese pilots spotted American warships below they unleashed the divine wind, or as it is more commonly know, the kamikaze. For the remainder of the Second World War thousands of kamikaze pilots would try and crash into American ships in a terrifying display of courage. This method of attack is incredibly famous, but was it actually effective?
During the Vietnam War, the U.S. dropped more than 2.5M tons of ordnance on Laos during - equal to a planeload of bombs every eight minutes, 24 hours a day, for nine years – making Laos the most heavily bombed country per capita in history. Australian bomb disposal specialist Laith Stevens has to train a new young "big bomb" team to deal with bombs left from the US "Secret War", but meanwhile, the local children are out hunting for bomb scrap metal. Vividly depicting the consequences of war with the incredible bravery of those trying to clear up the mess.
The Private Contractors Fighting America's Foreign Wars | Close Quarter Battle | War Stories
Without shipments of supplies from the US, Britain would have been entirely isolated from the rest of the world. These shipments had to make a dangerous crossing of the Atlantic ocean, avoiding attacks from German U-Boats. In what was seemingly an un-winnable front against the fierce Nazi submarines, air power is what changed the tide.
This film explores the events of September 15th, 1940 - the day Churchill described as the 'crux of the battle.' On a day now celebrated as Battle of Britain Day, Adolph Hitler's Nazi war planes fought the British Royal Air Force. Dramatic color film footage of aerial combat combined with contemporary interviews show how events in World War II seventy years ago resonate through the generations.
Operation Red Dawn: The Hunt For Saddam Hussein | Close Quarter Battle | War Stories
On April 18, 1942, the United States launched a daring bombing raid on Tokyo, known as the Doolittle raid. Led by commander James H. Doolittle, this mission was a direct response to the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor which had taken place just four months earlier.
The untold stories of six Australian army nurses who served at the only Australian field hospital in the Vietnam War and a deep dive into the horrors they witnessed.
Fighting a war half way around the world is no easy task. Keeping the supply lines active for the men and machines fighting this war is even more difficult. This documentary film from the Vietnam war takes us behind the scenes of how the US kept their forces ready for action.
The deadly three pronged surprise German attack that started Operation Barbarossa in June 1941 was executed perfectly. A huge chunk of the dated Soviet air force was destroyed before it could get off the ground. This gave Germany huge air superiority in the early days of the campaign which would almost prove fatal for Russia.
The entire world praised the Myanmar military and Aung San Suu Kyi, when power was passed on to the democracy icon after 50 years of military dictatorship. One year later she defended an ethnic cleansing and had isolated herself from the public. This film tells you why.
The Viet Cong employed guerrilla tactics to devastating effect against American forces during the Vietnam War. However, the U.S. Marines were able to adapt to their unconventional enemy by using a combination of intelligence gathering, counterinsurgency measures, and a more aggressive approach.
The Battle of the Philippine Sea was a turning point in the Pacific Theatre of the Second World War as the Imperial Japanese Navy was never able to recover from the losses inflicted upon them. The aerial battle was so one sided it became known as the Great Marianas Turkey Shoot.
The war in the pacific started in 1941 with a ruthless surprise attack on the american naval base at Pearl Harbour. This daring attack had caught America off guard and dragged them into the war against an enemy on the other side of the world. This documentary explores the attack and the fatal consequences it had for the Japanese.
For a lot of the American soldiers fighting the Vietnam War, religion was a big part of their lives, whether they were religious before the conflict or not. The Chaplain Corps is made up of enlisted soldiers who serve as military chaplains and offer religious services to other soldiers of multiple faiths.
In 1944, an attempt was made on Adolf Hitler’s life by a group of rogue Nazi officers. The attempt failed, but what would have happened if Hitler had died before the end of the war? This documentary looks into the plot and what could have happened in a different historical timeline.
The bloody Vietnam War conflict of Operation Hastings took place in the Song Gnan Valley, a heavily fortified area where the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army had entrenched themselves. The American forces, supported by South Vietnamese troops, launched a massive assault on the valley in July 1966, in an attempt to take control of the region and disrupt enemy supply lines.
From covert operations to acts of sabotage, discover how Norwegian rebels fought back against their Nazi oppressors during World War II.
From the Battle of Guadalcanal to the fierce fighting in the Philippines, we explore the key battles and tactics that made General MacArthur's island hopping strategy so effective.
During the Vietnam War, US forces were fighting in terrain very different to what they're used to at home. One of these key differences in the lack of purpose built roads across the country. The Vietnamese instead use the rivers and waterways that run through their country. As these routes were so vital to the Viet Cong, US forces had to patrol them extremely carefully.
During WW2, France was occupied by Nazi Germany for more than 4 years.
When America gained the upper hand in the Pacific, soldiers thought they were halfway to victory. They were wrong. The way that the Japanese forces fought only become harder to combat the closer the US got to Japan. Coming face to face with an army that would fight fanatically to the last man and never surrender was no easy task.
Operation Piranha, a search and destroy mission against 2,000 suspected Viet Cong guerrillas at the twin peninsulas of Batangan and An Ky. A combined force made up of Marines and South Vietnamese soldiers was sent to complete the operation, but with difficult terrain and a relentless enemy to contend with, it wouldn't be an easy task.
In May 1941, German forces launched a large-scale airborne invasion of the Greek island of Crete. It was expected to be an easy victory for the Axis Powers, but the defending Allied forces put up a fierce resistance against the German paratroopers and mountain divisions.
The Dunkirk evacuation was one of WWII’s great escapes. With 338,226 troops evacuated in just nine days it is one of Britain's most famous moments of the war, and with the term ‘Dunkirk Spirit’ being coined in its aftermath it gave Britain a huge morale boost, ready to fight again another day.
This archive footage from the Vietnam war explores the diverse role of the Us Navy played in the conflict. Whether it be through artillery support, carrying supplies or through helping Vietnamese civilians their role was crucial.
The Battle of the Somme was the bloodiest battle of WW1 and one of the bloodiest battles in human history. More than 3 million men took part in the batttle and around 1 million of them were wounded or killed. This documentary explores the history behind this turning point of the First World War.
From the iconic Huey helicopter to the brutal B-52 bomber, the Vietnam War saw America unleash their incredible air power. Discover how the aerial assaults led by these war machines proved too much for the North Vietnamese Army.
Explore the pivotal moments of World War I with "The Spring Offensive: Germany's Final Gamble." Witness Germany's daring last-ditch effort to secure victory as we delve into this significant chapter of the Great War. Experience the intensity of their strategic offensive and the fierce battles that ensued. In this gripping video, we uncover the critical decisions, the sacrifices made, and the ultimate outcome of Germany's audacious gamble. Join us as we unravel the untold story of the Spring Offensive, a pivotal moment in the First World War.
Before the rapid escalation of the Vietnam War and the deployment of US troops, a very different plan of action was conceived. It involved US forces travelling around the Vietnamese countryside to remote villages and hamlets to help build facilities for the villagers, provide medical treatment and convince their men to take up arms against the Viet Cong.
Step into the shoes of American soldiers and experience the harsh realities of the Vietnam War firsthand. Discover the daily struggles, camaraderie, and personal stories that shaped their lives during this tumultuous chapter in American history.
A big part of the fight against communism in The Vietnam War wasn't fought on the battlefield. This "civic action" was undertaken to show the Vietnamese population that they were being supported by the US and that capitalism was the way to go. This was undertaken by providing medical and construction aid as well as ensuring protection from the Viet Cong.
Witness the harrowing world of American pilots in the Vietnam War, where each day feels like a relentless 25-hour battle. Amidst deafening gunfire and constant danger, these aviators support ground troops and interdict supply routes, while ground crews tirelessly maintain their aircraft. Experience the unbreakable bond forged in the crucible of combat.
The Battle Of The Somme was the bloodiest battle of the First World War. There were over 1 million casualties, but within the cacophony of bullets and bloodshed incredible stories of valour and heroism emerged. In this documentary, delve into the lives of seven courageous men who's extraordinary bravery earned them the Victoria Cross, Britain's rarest military medal.
Hitler's ambitious invasion of the Soviet Union proved to be the turning point for the Second World War. Explore the clash between Hitler and Stalin on the Eastern Front, the largest and bloodiest theater of the war, and uncover the fatal mistake that sealed Nazi Germany's fate.
US forces were involved in the Vietnam War for years before the government put" boots on the ground" in 1965. Army personnel volunteered to aid the South Vietnamese by improving their standard of living in their very poor country. This documentary looks at how they did this and if this campaign had the desired effect.
From the initial communist invasion to the resilient defense by South Korean and United Nations forces, we witness the fierce battles, daring operations, and the ultimate retaking of Seoul. Discover the untold stories, sacrifices, and triumphs of those caught in the crossfire of this pivotal conflict.
The Battle Of Kursk is the largest ever tank battle. This video takes a look at everything around the battle, from the leaders, to the soldiers, to the strategy.
This documentary takes a look at the tactics used by the US in The Korean War. We analyse the movements of American units as well as how they strategically deployed paratroopers behind enemy lines to devastate the communist forces.
The shocking facts behind battles that were fought covertly. Digging deep into archives and quizzing experts and journalists, this series uncovers some of the most controversial, covered up and shocking military operations since the Second World War. This first episode begins in Crimea, when the Crimean Peninsula was annexed from Ukraine by the Russian Federation between February and March 2014.
In the ongoing struggle to conquer the Soviet Union in WW2, Hitler aimed to deal a destructive blow to the Soviet forces at the battle of Kursk. In what would become the largest tank battle in history, the fighting was fierce and a major duel between Zhukov and Von Manstein would decide the future of the world.
War Stories is your one stop shop for all things military history. From Waterloo to Verdun, we'll be bringing you only the best documentaries and stories from history's most engaging and dramatic conflicts.
Witness the harrowing back-and-forth battles that ravaged this once-thriving metropolis, as communist troops tried to seize control. From the city's destruction and the plight of its brave civilians to the heroic efforts of United Nations forces, this gripping documentary sheds light on the enduring will to triumph in the face of adversity.
From the early attempts to bomb Germany to the fierce air battles over Britain, learn why Hitler's ambitious invasion plans faced insurmountable challenges.
In October 1993, an elite battle unit of the US army began a fairly straight-forward mission in Somalia's capital to arrest two top lieutenants of the warlord Mohammed Aidid, who controlled the city. Dubbed the Battle of Mogadishu, within minutes it descended into chaos as one of the Black Hawk helicopters circling overheard was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade, spun out of control and crashed.
The Korea of today is very different to the Korea of the 1950s. When US troops were deployed there in the Korean War, not only did they face a bloody war but also the uphill battle of fighting disease. The US Medical Corps was the army's saving grace, this documentary shows us why.
The infamous battle of Stalingrad began in 1942 and over the course of 5 long months would see some of the most brutal fighting of WW2. This documentary tells the story of Stalingrad from beginning to end using the first hand accounts of soldiers that survived the conflict.
By the end of WW2 the Luftwaffe had become outnumbered and were outperformed by the allied air forces. Their weaknesses had been exposed and they failed to keep the momentum they held in the early years of the war when blitzkrieg was unleashed on the world. This documentary looks at the evolution of the Luftwaffe form it's humble beginnings to it mighty fall from grace.
In the wake of World War II, a solemn vow was made: "Never again." Yet, a few decades later, the world bore witness to a haunting contradiction – the Bosnian War and its devastating genocide. Explore this tragic chapter in history, where the promise to prevent another Holocaust clashed with the brutal reality of ethnic violence and mass atrocities.
The North African Campaign bore witness to some of the largest tank battles of the Second World War. This documentary dives into the tactics used by Rommel and Montgomery, and the tanks that fought for them. Featuring the Tiger tank, the M4 Sherman Tank and the Churchill tank.
Survivors of the infamous Battle of Stalingrad share their story. From the German and Russian perspectives, witness the fierce struggles, strategic maneuvers, and the untold sacrifices made by soldiers on both sides during the bloodiest battle of the Second World War.
World War, the largest conflict in human history. This video breaks the war down battle by battle, and explores its impact through compelling numbers: 30+ nations, 100M+ soldiers and 70M+ lives lost.
The shocking facts behind covert battles. Digging deep into archives and quizzing experts and journalists, this series uncovers some of the most controversial, covered up and shocking military operations since the Second World War.
The Panzer is the most iconic tank of WW2, remembered for its speed and firepower, that dominated the early years of the war. Outside of the main production units there are several more models of Panzer than have been forgotten to time, often with very few units made.
WW2 Marine Remembers His First Kill At The Battle of Okinawa | Rishi Sharma Interview | War Stories
As the battle for Stalingrad raged on, the situation that faced German soldiers quickly deteriorated. Facing frostbite, starvation and dwindling supplies, they were surrounded by death and their moral at breaking point.
The Japanese surrender shortly after the detonation of the second atomic bomb above the city of Hiroshima was the final nail in the coffin of the Imperial Japanese Empire. This momentous event in world history has forever overshadowed the other huge blow to the Japanese dealt by the Soviets in their successful campaign in Manchuria.
From 1964 to 1973, the U.S. dropped over 2 million tons of bombs in Laos, making it the most heavily bombed country per capita in history. This secret war had a devastating impact on civilians. It wasn't until 1997 that the U.S. officially acknowledged this covert operation. How did the CIA keep its largest-ever paramilitary mission hidden for two decades? Why did they wage a secret war in Laos?
In 1812, Napoleon I embarked on his ill-fated Russian campaign, fast forward to the 1940s, and Adolf Hitler found himself making strikingly similar decisions during World War II. Explore this intriguing historical parallel as we delve into the armored vehicles born from desperation on the Eastern Front and see how, despite the harsh lessons of history, Hitler repeated the same mistakes made over a century prior.
Operation Market Garden, a daring Allied plan to hasten the end of World War II. General Montgomery's ambitious strategy combined ground forces with a massive airborne assault, aiming to secure crucial bridges. However, critical errors and ignored intelligence led to disaster, with over 8,000 Allied casualties.
On August 9, 1945, as the world grappled with the aftermath of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the Soviet Union initiated a massive offensive against Japanese forces in Manchuria.
This documentary looks into the Iran-Contra affair of 1985 where the US Government were caught red-handed funding counter insurgencies against communist governments in central america. The US hoped to avoid a “domino effect” of communism spreading across the world, but did they use lies and loopholes?
This documentary tells the story of the greatest tank ace of the second world war, Michael Wittman. Wittman was an infamous figure amongst the ranks of his enemies as well as his comrades. His ruthless actions and unparalleled skill inside of a tank made him a hero in his homeland and a feared antagonist amongst enemy ranks.
Relive the battle of Normandy through two veteran’s eyes as a former soldier from England meets with his old enemy, a former German soldier to re-visit the battlefields of Normandy where 60 years previously, they would have been trying to kill each other.
December 7th, 1941, the date of the Pearl Harbor attack. It marked a pivotal moment that changed the course of World War II. In this documentary we delve into the events leading up to this infamous day and try to figure out if it could have been prevented.
On November 20, 2015, terror struck the Radisson Blu Hotel in Bamako, Mali, as gunmen stormed the luxury hotel, leaving 20 dead and taking 170 hostages. This shocking attack shed light on the secret war unfolding in the Sahara Desert. Mali went from democracy to chaos, prompting the United Nations to send in troops.
War Stories is your one stop shop for all things military history. From Waterloo to Verdun, we'll be bringing you only the best documentaries and stories from history's most engaging and dramatic conflicts.
In a desperate bid to counter the relentless Allied advance on both fronts, Adolf Hitler launched the desperate Ardennes Offensive. The brutal fighting that followed is more commonly known as the Battle of the Bulge.
On the 15th February 1942, Imperial Japanese forces captured the British stronghold of Singapore. Not only was Singapore Britain's economic base of operations for east-Asia but it was also key to their defensive strategy of the other commonwealth countries in the region. This embarrassing defeat was so surprising that 80,000 troops were taken prisoner.
Using 3 examples of Thailand, Libya and Chile, we take a look at how a coup d'état works. How is it put into place? What are the necessary resources? How often do they work? This documentary explores this and more.
In 1939, Nazi Germany unleashed the horrors of Blitzkrieg to an unsuspecting Europe. This new type of warfare would go on to propel Germany to enormous territorial gains during the next few years with the world still in shock from the surprise of mechanised warfare. But little did they know, Blitzkrieg had been taking shape in the shadows for years before.
This documentary explores the brutal desert fighting in North Africa during WW2. Veterans from both sides of the conflict return to the battlefields where they once fought as enemies. What were their experiences in this harsh environment?
After Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor, their empire expanded rapidly across the Pacific. But the tide began to turn as the Americans launched their first major offensive against Japan on the island of Guadalcanal. Witness the challenges faced by both American and Japanese troops in the unforgiving jungle.
From the beginnings of the conflict with the birth of Israel in 1948 and the heated tensions of the 1967 Six-Day War, to more recent developments like Operation Cast Lead and the involvement of Donald Trump, uncover the tumultuous history of the Israeli-Palestine conflict.
Travel back to 1940 and the Miracle of Dunkirk. Over 300,000 Allied soldiers found themselves trapped between the relentless German forces and the unforgiving North Sea. Hear the first-hand accounts of two veterans from both sides of the line, and witness the emotional reunions on the very beaches where history was made.
Launched in 1943, Operation Cartwheel was a daring strategy led by General Douglas MacArthur which aimed to roll back Japan's expansion. Over the next two years, the Pacific saw some of the fiercest battles in history, from Tarawa to Iwo Jima. Japanese soldiers' unwavering spirit meant few were taken prisoner, and kamikaze missions became synonymous with their determination.
World War, the largest conflict in human history. This video breaks the war down battle by battle, and explores its impact through compelling numbers: 30+ nations, 100M+ soldiers and 70M+ lives lost.
The battle of Rorke's Drift went down in history for all the wrong reasons. What is commonly spun as a heroic victory for the British is actually the result of being pushed to the very edge by a numerically inferior native force of Zulu warriors fighting against modern military equipment using primitive weapons like spears and bows. How did the mighty British forces end up backed into a corner fighting for their lives?
Before the D-Day landings, allied troops were fighting German forces in Italy. Attempting to break the well fortified Gustav Line, a literal uphill battle took place to dislodge German forces from the century-old monastery in Monte Cassino. What followed some of the most frustrating fighting the Allies had faced in the war so far.
In 1941, German forces completely surrounded Leningrad. By the time this blockade was lifted, 872 days had passed and more than 1.5 million innocent civilians had died from starvation or from German artillery bombardment, making it the costliest siege in human history.
Discover the remarkable story behind the Supermarine Spitfire, a British aviation icon that played a pivotal role in World War II. In this captivating interview, veterans and experts recount the Spitfire's evolution from the Schneider Trophy seaplanes to a groundbreaking fighter aircraft.
Also known as the Yom Kippur War, the Ramadan War or the October War, the Fourth Arab–Israeli War took place in October 1973. Israel found itself outnumbered by their enemies, a coalition of Arab states led by Egypt and Syria, setting the stage for a huge tank battle.
Operation Barbarossa, Hitler's audacious invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941. This pivotal moment in World War II saw three million German troops launch a brutal assault on Russia, leading to unimaginable suffering and destruction. Hitler's grand vision of world domination hinged on conquering Russia, but the Soviet Union's resilience and a series of events would change the course of history.
The harrowing tale of the Siege of Leningrad, one of the longest and deadliest sieges in human history. Explore the strategic decisions, unyielding resistance, and the unimaginable human cost of this brutal conflict.
The Convair B-36 is a plane that made history. It was the first plane capable of carrying nuclear weapons without any prior adjustments. This meant that the iconic bomber saw in a new era of nuclear tension at the start of the cold war. But this plane has a surprisingly storied history.
At one point in the early days of Operation Barbarossa, The German army came within 15km of Moscow. The city had been swiftly prepared for an attack and mass civilian evacuations had taken place, sanctioned or unsanctioned. Why then, could Germany not take the city?
The end of the 6-month campaign in Tunisia was a huge victory for the Allies in a time when victories they seemed very hard to come by. The way was now clear for the allies to focus their attention towards liberating Europe from Nazi occupation. But this victory didn't come easily. It was a hard fought campaign in extremely challenging conditions.
In the autumn of 1942, the Red Army stood as the last line of defense against Hitler's ambitions in the heart of Stalingrad, setting the stage for one of the most gruesome battles of the war.
The tank battles of El Alamein saw two legendary commanders face off against each other; Bernard Montgomery and Erwin Rommel. The outcome of these battles would prove to be decisive in the North African Campaign of the Second World War.
The Top Secret German Weapons That Almost Won The War | Secrets of War | War Stories
After the turning point of the battle of Kursk, Nazi Germany was mounting a huge retreat back to Berlin. Hitler's commanders grew increasingly frustrated with his hopeless orders to fight to the last man, sacrificing countless manpower and materials in the process. This set the stage for a doomed retreat back to Berlin where the Nazis had already dug their own grave.
Morocco, Egypt and Tunisia are 3 countries that couldn't be further away from the heart of war-torn Europe. But despite this, several key battles between the Allies and Axis powers took place here. They saw some of the harshest fighting in the most adverse conditions. But how did war reach the continent of Africa?
How Did The French Resistance Fight Back Against The Nazis? | Secrets of War | War Stories
From the Dreadnought to the Bismarck, witness the development of new naval weapons and battle tactics as that Germany used to try and dominate the seas.
In September 1943, the Allied forces, led by General Montgomery, initiated a brutal campaign in Italy. The Germans put up a fierce defense, both sides suffered heavy losses, and the battle for Italy began. The Allies encountered natural and man-made barriers, including the Winter Line and the Gustav Line, as they fought their way towards Rome
Operation Bodyguard: The Elaborate Deceptions That Proceeded D-Day | Secrets of War | War Stories
From 1941 to 1945, America was at War with Japan. It started with a surprise attack on Pearl Harbour and it ended with the detonation of 2 atomic bombs. Between these two events countless soldiers and civilians were killed in some of the most brutal fighting of WW2. This is the definitive story of this conflict.
The second battle of El Alamein marked the beginning of the end of the North African campaign of WW2. After years of fighting in the horrific desert conditions, the stage was set for a tactical masterclass from both Bernard Montgomery and Erwin Rommel.
Witness the gripping narrative of how the Cold War brought the world to the brink of destruction as two superpowers faced off.
Explore the daring exploits of legendary German Fighter Aces from World War II. Unearth the strategic legacy left behind by these aces and their impact on warfare tactics.
Witness the brutal challenges faced by Allied troops in harsh conditions, strategic decisions, and the impact on both sides of the Italian Campaign. From the grueling battles to the shifting leadership, explore why this often-overlooked campaign tied down German forces and reshaped the war's course.
Few military organisations in human history have undertaken as many daring operations as the legendary SAS. From undercover operations to fighting deep behind enemy lines, the SAS have always thrown themselves in the thick of the action.
After the initial success of D-Day in 1944, the next challenge for the Allies was to keep their foot in the door of occupied Europe. This would be no easy task, with a desperate Germany fighting to the last man under orders from an increasingly erratic Hitler.
Explore the pivotal moments of General Montgomery's strategic brilliance in turning the tide during the North African campaign. From the bleak early days against overwhelming odds to the dramatic Battle of El Alamein, witness the ebb and flow of the desert war.
Stretching from the Netherlands to the Swiss border, the Siegfried line was the Germans final significant line of defense on the Western Front. Composed of around 22,000 pillboxes, troop shelters, and command posts, the Allies faced immense challenges as they relentlessly fought to breach this formidable barrier.
On September 1st 1939, Hitler's Nazi Germany invaded Poland, thus beginning WW2. This ruthless act of aggression sent shockwaves around the world. But why did Hitler make this fateful decision to plunge the the human race into a global conflict?
In September 1944, the Allies dropped over 40 thousand troops into the Nazi occupied Netherlands. Their objective was to capture strategic points including 9 bridges to create an invasion route into Germany. This hugely ambitious operation was a disaster and led to enormous Allied casualties and prisoners.
In a daring experiment in the California desert, aviation experts recreate the Fritz X to see if the Nazi Precision bomb could've changed the outcome of WW2. The experts also look at some of Hitler's other wonder weapons, including mega tanks and giant railway guns.
From legendary fighter planes like the Spitfire and A6M Zero, to the strategic shifts in bombing campaigns, witness the evolution of aerial warfare. Explore the decisive moments, from the Battle of Britain to the Pacific Theater, and understand the technological advancements that decided the battle for the skies in WW2.
Follow the Allied troops, faced with daunting challenges as they strive to capture crucial French towns of Caen. General Montgomery faced determined German resistance including the legendary Tiger II tank commanded by Michael Wittmann, the Black Baron, at Villers-Bocage.
After establishing themselves as some of the best precision bombers in the world, the elite Dambusters unit had a new assignment. Their task was to sink an enormous German battleship named Tirpitz which was deemed "unsinkable" by it's creators.
Tony Robinson's VE Day: Minute By Minute takes a unique look at a pivotal day in the history of the modern world, delving into the key events that made VE Day such a momentous twenty-four hours. This is the story of what happened on that most celebrated and important day, including original interviews with historians and veterans who tell their stories and share their first-hand experiences
The bold allied plan known as Operation Market Garden was never going to be an easy move to pull of, but even the Allies couldn't have guessed how badly things really went. An infamous failure of the later ears of the war, what would have happened had this daring manoeuvre been pulled off?
The Battle of Kapyong marked a crucial juncture in China's Fifth Offensive during that spring in Korea. The offensive aimed to expel foreign troops from South Korea and push them into the sea. However, the unexpected occurred, altering the course of the Korean War. The Chinese were thwarted in their pursuit of victory and compelled to return to the negotiating table. If they had succeeded, it could have resulted in another significant setback for the United States, potentially triggering events leading to a nuclear catastrophe in Asia and igniting World War Three.
Heinz Guderian, a German general during World War II, credited with pioneering blitzkrieg tactics. Explore how his military ideas reshaped the course of mechanized warfare, emphasizing speed and combined arms.
Unravel the mystery surrounding the demise of Germany's highest-scoring Panzer ace, Michael Wittmann, known as the Black Baron. Explore the 1944 Normandy battlefield where Wittmann met his fate, and join the investigation into who really took down the legendary tank commander. Was it the British, a Typhoon aircraft, or the Canadians? Delve into historical evidence, battlefield analysis, and eyewitness accounts to piece together the events leading to the fall of the Black Baron.
Heinrich Himmler was one of the key figures of the Nazi party from the early days until their defeat in WW2. He was the architect of the Final Solution and is responsible for the deaths of millions of innocent people. This documentary reveals the true extent of his crimes.
The notoriety of the Tiger, the more common name for the Panzer mk6 is the stuff of legend from WW2. The pride of the German armed forces, the mere sight of it sent fear in the heart of the Allies. This documentary takes a look at the history of this legendary tank.
One of the lesser remembered struggles of WW2 was for the island of Malta. It's tactical worth was astronomical to both the Allies and Axis powers due to it's proximity to North Africa. Such a crucial asset was never going to be given up lightly.
Delve into the dark depths of Goebbels' manipulation as he callously stoked the flames of anti-Semitism, brainwashing the German people into embracing the Nazi ideology. From the infamous book burnings to his role in orchestrating the Holocaust, explore how Goebbels' commitment to evil paved the way for one of the most devastating wars in history.
Explore the dramatic events of Operation Barbarossa, Hitler's ambitious invasion of the Soviet Union during World War II. Uncover the ideological motivations and strategic blunders that led to the German forces facing unexpected challenges. From the devastating impact of Stalin's purges on the Red Army to the critical shortage of experienced tank commanders, this video delves into the complexities that shaped the Eastern Front.
Discover the untold history of the de Havilland Mosquito, a wooden aircraft that played a crucial role in World War II. Explore its versatile design and impact as the Allies' secret weapon against Nazi Germany.
The infamous Hermann Goering was one of Hitler's closest allies and highest ranking Generals. A fighter ace from WW1, he became a politician before eventually leading the Luftwaffe into battle under the Nazi flag. Known for his vain and selfish tendencies, this is the story of his rise to power, and fall from grace.
In 1943 the battle of Kursk would go down as the biggest tank battle in human history, a record still held today. The Nazi push to sever the pocked of Soviet troops and armour known as the 'Kursk salient' would involve some 6,000 tanks, 2,000,000 troops, and 4,000 aircraft. As was the pattern with Hitler's invasion of the USSR, the battle didn't go to plan.
The Spanish Civil War took place between 1936 and 1939 and would decide the fate of the country for decades to come. The hard fought struggle between republican forces and nationalistic forces loyal to dictator Franco, would be unique in the sense that a disproportionate amount of foreign nationals took part. But why was this?
Uncover the chilling story of Adolf Eichmann, the key architect of the Holocaust. Following Nazi Germany's defeat near the end of WW2, Eichmann was captured by US forces and held in a detention center. However, he was able to escape before ultimately fleeing to Argentina. Unwilling to let him escape justice, this is the story of how he was hunted down and brought to trial.
The Churchill tank, a versatile marvel of wartime engineering. Uncover how it emerged as a true hero during the pivotal events of D-Day and the subsequent battles that played a pivotal role in defeating Nazi Germany.
By 1942, Imperial Japan's expansion had taken them to the border of Burma, a British territory. However, what deeply concerned Britain, was the looming threat of a potential Japanese invasion of British India should they succeed in conquering Burma. This is the story of how British and Burmese troops rallied against the rising Imperial threat and how, despite their valor, the veterans of Burma were relegated to obscurity post-war. Join us in honoring these overlooked allies, shedding light on their resilience, sacrifices, and the historical context that shaped this forgotten chapter of WW2.
Historian James Holland and ex-US Army Ranger, Dr Mike Simpson tour the wider Normandy battlefield in a fresh and original series that finally does justice to the scale and complexity of an epic, brutal campaign. In this episode our hosts examine the preparations for the invasion across southern England before crossing the Channel to Normandy, challenging many D-Day myths.
After the Soviet victory at the battle of Kursk in 1943, total defeat looked like a very real possibility for Germany. Hitler decided that a surprise attack through the Ardennes region of France towards the main allied supply port at Antwerp would give him one last chance at victory on the western front.
After establishing a beachhead at Normandy, the next arduous task for the Allies would be to control the entire region of Normandy so that they can take the fight into mainland Europe. The main German holdouts were in the South-East of the region, and dislodging them would be no easy task.
Join renowned historian James Holland and decorated U.S. veteran Dr. Mike Simpson as they explore the iconic D-Day landing site. Gain a new perspective as we uncover the challenges faced by both American and German forces on Omaha Beach. From the tactical intricacies to the emotional impact, witness the untold stories beyond the beaches.
In 1940, Germany's blitzkrieg changed the face of warfare. As Hitler's tank divisions swept through Europe, Allies raced against time to develop a counter. By 1942, Britain unveiled the Churchill tank, a formidable machine that played a pivotal role in turning the tide. Explore the journey of tank warfare from primitive beginnings to the Churchill's impact on the battlefield.
As German Army groups surged into the Soviet Union, Army Group South faced a critical challenge in capturing the strategically vital Crimean Peninsula. Join us as we delve into the complexities faced by the German leadership in their quest to overcome Soviet resistance, navigate treacherous terrains, and ultimately secure the gateway to the Caucasus.
Historian James Holland and ex-US Army Ranger, Dr Mike Simpson tour the wider Normandy battlefield in a fresh and original series that finally does justice to the scale and complexity of an epic, brutal campaign. In this episode our hosts examine the preparations for the invasion across southern England before crossing the Channel to Normandy, challenging many D-Day myths.
The Holy Grail, the most prized relic of Christianity has been shrouded in mystery for centuries. Said to be the cup used by Christ at the last supper it is believed by many to hold miraculous powers. For centuries Kings, knights and treasure hunters have sought it, but it has always remained elusive and out of reach of human hands.
After inventing the tank in WW1, Britain failed to capitalize on this emerging technology. Germany did however and the full effects of this were seen in the unstoppable wave of Blitzkrieg in WW2. To combat Hitler's Panzers, Britain turned to a new type of tank, The Cromwell.
After making light work of the Soviet forces defending the Crimea, Erich von Manstein turned his attention to the Soviet port of Sevastopol. What lay ahead for the Soviets was a brutal 8-month siege in which they would face more bombing from the Luftwaffe than London, Rotterdam or Warsaw.
Operation Jaywick, one of World War II's most daring Allied missions, saw six men of Z Special Unit take on the might of the Japanese empire. Now, 70 years later, Operation Jaywick: Sinking Japan chronicles the story of a group as they attempt to recreate this perilous journey, pushing their limits to honor those who risked their lives.
In the ruins of wartime Italy, elite German troops, under Himmler's command, scour for a mysterious book that would justify Nazi Germany's most horrific policies. This true story exposes the Nazis' manipulation of Tacitus' 'Germania' to fabricate a mythical Aryan history. As we delve into the pursuit, discover the shocking twists and tragic consequences of Himmler's obsession.
While battling Rommel in North Africa, Britain turned to the US in an effort to gain greater firepower. The primary American tank at the time, the M3 Lee, underwent crucial modifications to make it ideal for British use. This transformation birthed the M3 Grant, a legendary tank that became pivotal in the North African campaign. Join us in exploring the journey of the M3, a force that played a crucial role in iconic battles like El Alamein, and helped turn the tide of WW2.
In 1939, three months after the outset of the Second World War, the USSR turned their attention to the icy landscapes of Finland. Stalin anticipated Finland would simply sign their land over, given the USSR's vastly superior military strength, but to his shock they fought tooth and nail for their freedom. The determined Finnish defenses at the Mannerheim line saw some of the most brutal fighting in the early part of the war.
It's the most admired and influential pistol of the 20th Century: the Colt M1911. Former Army Ranger and Air Force Pararescueman Wil Willis puts this legendary weapon and its ground-breaking predecessors to the test.
It's no secret that Nazi Germany had an interest in the occult and supernatural. This strange interest led them on all kinds of otherworldly journeys around the world hunting for mythical objects and places. This is the story of one such journey ordered by Heinrich Himmler to the depths to the most remote areas of Tibet.
The mighty M4 Sherman is an enduring image of WW2. As America joined the war, the raw power of their industry almost instantly started to turn the tide in Europe. The M4 arrived in Europe and North Africa in large numbers and seemed to be the perfect match for the Panzer 3, Germany's latest engineering marvel.
As Europe was plunged into war in 1939, neutral Scandinavia watched in fear. Its fear was warranted as it wouldn't be long before the competing powers would violate their neutrality to fight over the strategically important countries.
In this episode, former Army Ranger and Air Force Pararescue Wil Willis explores the legendary M1 Garand, the rifle that won World War II. From its incredible history to its impact on the battlefield, witness the evolution of rifles and the M1's vital role.
Delve into the legend of General Tomoyuki Yamashita and his fabled gold, a treasure hoard worth over $100 billion today. Follow amateur treasure hunter Roger Roxas on his lifelong quest, uncovering the covert operations of the Golden Lily and the treacherous aftermath. Join us as we explore the gripping tale of intrigue, scandal, and obsession, shedding light on one of history's greatest mysteries: Yamashita's Gold.
The KV Tank, this behemoth of steel boasted unparalleled resilience, becoming a nightmare for German forces. However, its own bulk and sluggishness proved to be its Achilles' heel, rendering it obsolete when compared to the nimble and versatile T-34.
The Battle of the Atlantic, World War II's longest continuous military campaign. Explore the challenges faced by convoys, the evolution of submarine warfare, and the strategic manoeuvres that shaped the outcome. From the relentless U-boat attacks to the Allied countermeasures, this documentary brings to life the high-stakes drama that unfolded on the open seas.
They are some of the most iconic and recognizable weapons in the world - the Tommy Gun, the Uzi and the Schmeisser. Host Wil Willis explores the evolution of the submachine gun, and put it greatest examples to the test.
Fighting a world war doesn't come cheap, however Nazi Germany managed to pull this off whilst their country's economy was in pieces. How exactly then did Hitler find the money to wage war on this kind of scale?
The T-34 is an incredible symbol of the Soviet's industrial might. The tank outclassed the invading German tanks in almost every way and was a crucial factor in the Soviet victory. What's more amazing is that before this, the USSR had almost no experience of tank production.
In 1879, The British Empire began its campaign of colonization in modern day South Africa. This campaign would last for over 5 months and despite eventually ending in British victory, it was by no means an easy feat. The Zulu army was majorly underestimated by the British and what they thought would be an easy battle against natives tribes turned out to be an incredibly hard fought war against an inspired enemy that outnumbered them by large amounts.
Explore the evolution of artillery, from ancient cannons to America's formidable M777 Howitzer. Join Wil Willis as he uncovers the secrets behind the lethal accuracy, versatility and firepower of these fearsome weapons.
Witness the birth of hateful ideologies in the midst of economic turmoil and political unrest as this documentary details the rise of Hitler's Nazism in Germany, Mussolini's fascism in Italy, Franco's regime in Spain, and Japan's expansionist ambitions. Explore the intricate web of events that led to the rise of these dictators, the failure of the League of Nations to prevent their aggression, and the pivotal moments that made the Second World War Inevitable.
In November 1923, Adolf Hitler's audacious attempt to overthrow the Weimar government, known as the Beer Hall Putsch, fails disastrously. The coup results in Hitler's arrest and imprisonment, and the support for the Nazi Party halves. After his release and a change in tactics, Hitler continues to struggle to gain significant political traction as the situation in Germany appears to be improving. Even with his impassioned speeches and propaganda efforts, led by Joseph Goebbels, the Nazis fail to attract a substantial following. This documentary delves into Hitler's persistent political failures until a financial crisis eventually opened the door for his rise to power.
