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.
Show
Combat Ships
Episode
S01E05
Air Date
Jul 19, 2017
Season 1 Episodes
S01E01
Warships of the World Wars
S01E02
Submarines War Beneath the Waves
S01E03
The Vessels That Saved D-Day
S01E04
The First Metal Warships
S01E05
Torpedo Boats at War
S01E06
Cold War Warriors
S01E07
Rescue Ships
S01E08
The Smallest Ships of War
S01E09
Mighty Wooden Warships
S01E10
Secrets and Lies