Watch Rise of the Supercarrier

Rise of the Supercarrier is a documentary series produced by Smithsonian Channel that explores the history and technology of the world's most advanced aircraft carriers. The series premiered in 2019 and consists of six episodes, each of which delves deeply into different aspects of these massive vessels.

The first episode, titled "Goliath of the Seas," introduces viewers to the concept of the aircraft carrier and how it evolved over time. From the early 20th century to World War II, the episode covers the development of early carriers like the HMS Ark Royal and the USS Enterprise. We also learn about the pivotal role of carriers in the Battle of Midway, a turning point in the Pacific Theater of the war.

In the second episode, "Nuclear Age," the series examines how the advent of nuclear power transformed carriers from mere platforms for launching planes into self-sufficient, mobile cities. Through interviews with former crew members and archival footage, viewers get an inside look at life on board these behemoths, including the challenges of running a nuclear reactor at sea.

The third episode, "Race to the Future," focuses on the arms race between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. As both countries sought to build ever-larger carriers with more advanced technology, we see how the US Navy's Nimitz-class carriers emerged as the dominant force in the seas. The episode also highlights the role of carriers in the Persian Gulf War and other conflicts in this era.

In the fourth episode, "The Ultimate Weapon," viewers get a close-up look at the USS Gerald R. Ford, the US Navy's newest and most advanced carrier. With cutting-edge technology like electromagnetic launch systems and advanced nuclear reactors, the Ford represents the pinnacle of carrier design. But the episode also explores the controversies surrounding the carrier's cost and functionality.

The fifth episode, "The Builders," shifts focus to the people behind the carriers: the engineers, designers, and builders who bring these vessels to life. We meet some of the men and women responsible for constructing the Ford and other carriers, as well as the scientists and researchers who develop new technologies to enhance their capabilities.

Finally, in the sixth and final episode, "Legacy," the series considers the future of the carrier in an era of changing military technology. With the rise of unmanned aircraft, missile defense systems, and new threats from rival nations, some have questioned whether the carrier is still a viable weapon. But others argue that carriers remain an essential part of US military might, capable of projecting power across the globe.

Overall, Rise of the Supercarrier offers a fascinating and in-depth look at one of the most iconic and important weapons in modern military history. Combining historic footage, expert analysis, and personal stories from those who served on these colossal ships, the series provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the carrier's evolution and significance.

Rise of the Supercarrier is a series that ran for 2 seasons (6 episodes) between October 13, 2019 and on Smithsonian Channel