Weapons of World War II

Season 1

Unlike any other conflict of the 20th Century, World War II saw the sharpest and most dramatic rise in the design, manufacture and effectiveness of some of the world's most lethal weaponry. Weapons of World War II tells the story of the development, deployment, and devastating effects of each weapon system from the outbreak of the war to its dramatic climax in 1945.

Where to Watch Weapons of World War II • Season 1

10 Episodes

Tanks
E1
TanksTank development was dramatic in World War II. From pre-war light tanks, we see the emergence of the monster tanks such as the legendary Panthers and King Tigers of 1944.
Midget Submarines
E2
Midget SubmarinesFrom attacks on Pearl Harbour, to the British Mediterranean Fleet and the Tirpitz, midget subs played their part in some of the most gripping stories of war.
Gliders
E3
GlidersWhen it was impossible for aircraft to land safely on enemy territory, gliders were the perfect answer for delivering special forces behind enemy lines.
Aircraft Carriers
E4
Aircraft CarriersGiant aircraft carriers dominated the Pacific War. The battle of Midway was won by US carriers delivering tremendous air strikes against Japanese battleships.
Fighter Bombers
E5
Fighter BombersBy 1944, the Allied fronts in Europe had become faster moving and a new form of aircraft was needed to deliver swift, powerful attacks against German lines.
Heavy bombers
E6
Heavy bombersAt the outbreak of World War II, the only heavy four engined bombers in the war were either Russian or American.
Battleships
E7
BattleshipsAt the start of World War II, battleships were seen as the key weapon at sea. Over the next six years, the battleships' role changed to that of shore bombardment and escort work.
Rockets
E8
RocketsRockets had a huge impact on World War II. Hand held rocket launchers such as the American bazooka enbabled infantry to tackle tanks head on.
Fast attack boats
E9
Fast attack boatsFast patrol boats, armed with torpedoes and machine guns, were the marine raiders of World War II.
Machine guns
E10
Machine gunsUnlike World War I, the machine gun did not dominate the battlefield of World War II, but it remained a highly potent weapon.