Combat Ships (2017)

Episode Overview

In the late 19th century, the creation of the self-propelled torpedo sparked a transformation in naval architecture. Militaries required new ships to launch these weapons and protect against them. This led to the emergence of torpedo boats—swift, nimble crafts that significantly influenced both World Wars. Explore these advanced vessels, including the German S-boats, which turned a D-Day practice into an authentic conflict, the MTB 102, the tiniest ship to act as a flagship for the Royal Navy, and the PT 109, which catapulted a young John F. Kennedy into fame.