History's Greatest Aircraft

Season 3

An in depth look at some of the greatest aircraft that have seen service in different armed conflicts. Experts examine factors affecting the manufacture and use of the aircraft, while individual participants offer their perspectives.

Where to Watch History's Greatest Aircraft • Season 3

6 Episodes

Grumman TBF Avenger
E1
Grumman TBF AvengerThe Grumman Avenger, which was the most important carrier-based torpedo bomber on American and British carriers throughout the Second World War. They were also the biggest and heaviest carrier aircraft of the conflict.
Junkers Ju 52
E2
Junkers Ju 52The Junkers Ju 52, which is considered one of the most famous airplanes in history. It was first designed as an airliner, but was used as a transport, bomber, and air ambulance during the Second World War.
Republic P-47 Thunderbolt
E3
Republic P-47 ThunderboltThe Republic P-47 Thunderbolt, a Second World War fighter aircraft produced by the American company Republic Aviation from 1941 until 1945. It was considered a successful high-altitude fighter and also served as the foremost US fighter-bomber in the ground-attack role.
Yakovlev Yak-3
E4
Yakovlev Yak-3The Yakovlev Yak-3, a Second World War Soviet fighter that was regarded for its performance at low altitudes and its agility. It was one of the most successful Soviet aircraft designs of the war.
Hawker Hurricane
E5
Hawker HurricaneThe Hawker Hurricane was the first RAF aircraft to fly over 300mph. Over half of every enemy aeroplane destroyed in the Battle of Britain was by a Hurricane, not a Spitfire.
McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II
E6
McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom IIThe McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II. Regarded as one of the most important aircraft of the Cold War. It was a major part of the United States Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps, and was also used by many other countries.