Ep 18. The Subs of WWII

The eleventh season of Modern Marvels showcases the technological advancements of the past century, highlighting significant breakthroughs in various fields and industries. In the eighteenth episode, titled "The Subs of WWII," the show explores the game-changing role of submarines during World War II.

During WWII, submarines became a critical weapon for both Axis and Allied forces. For the first time in history, an underwater vessel was capable of launching a surprise attack on an enemy ship without being seen. This revolutionary technology changed the way wars were fought, and its impact still resonates today.

"The Subs of WWII" takes a deep dive into the history of submarines and their development during the war. The episode begins by explaining the unique challenges that submarines faced during the era. For example, they were limited by their underwater range, and their crews had to endure tight quarters and low oxygen levels.

The episode then delves into the tactics and strategies used by both sides during the war. The Germans, in particular, were known for their highly advanced submarines, including the Type VII and Type IX models. These submarines were larger and more powerful than their Allied counterparts, with advanced torpedo systems and periscopes that allowed them to stay hidden and launch deadly surprise attacks.

Meanwhile, the Allies had to develop countermeasures to deal with the German submarines. One of the most significant breakthroughs was the development of sonar technology, which allowed ships to detect underwater vessels using sound waves. The episode showcases the evolution of sonar during the war, starting with early systems that were often unreliable and easily fooled.

"The Subs of WWII" also profiles some of the most legendary submarines and their crews. For example, the USS Drum was a U.S. submarine that sank several Japanese ships during the war, earning its crew multiple awards and commendations. The German U-Boat U-505 is another submarine that played a significant role in the conflict, eventually being captured by the U.S. Navy and becoming a museum exhibit.

Throughout the episode, "The Subs of WWII" showcases the importance of submarines during the war and the impact that their development had on the conflict as a whole. By providing viewers with a comprehensive history of submarines in WWII, the show highlights the ingenuity and dedication of the engineers, technicians, and sailors who made these underwater vessels possible.