Ep 3. Pilots at War

The Complete History of Air Combat season 1 episode 3, titled "Pilots at War," delves into the impact that pilots have had upon the world of warfare. Beginning with the early days of WWI, the episode details how pilots first took to the skies in fragile biplanes, utilizing rudimentary weaponry to engage their foes.

The episode takes a close look at the various tactics developed by pilots during this era, including the use of aerobatics to evade enemy fire and extensive training to ensure pilot decision making in high pressure situations. With actual footage depicting air engagements of the time, viewers get a sense of the intensity of the emotions experienced by these pioneering pilots.

Moving on to WWII, the program explores the evolution of air combat, with pilot training becoming more specialized and advanced weaponry being developed. Focus shifts to the Pacific theater of war, where the Japanese utilized suicide missions as a last resort to cause maximum damage to Allied forces.

Throughout, the episode draws on real accounts of veteran pilots, recounting their own experiences and insights into the difficulties of flying and fighting in these aircraft. These stories serve to give a deeper understanding of the skills, bravery, and sacrifices required to succeed in air combat.

The documentary then moves on to the Korean War, providing a case study in the use of air power in modern warfare. Expanding from the traditional techniques, both American and Communist pilots employed new strategies, including prioritizing air-to-air missiles and the development of jet fighters. These changes in tactics created a new set of challenges and opportunities which had to be overcome by pilots on both sides.

The episode enters the Vietnam War next, introducing the use of helicopters in air combat. The importance of helicopters in this war was critical, with both sides deploying them in innovative and effective ways. Footage from the period is vivid and dramatic, showing just how ferocious some of these engagements were.

"Complete History of Air Combat" then skips ahead to modern times and the conflict in Afghanistan. Here, we see how aerial drones have come to dominate the skies, changing the nature of air combat once again.

Overall, episode 3 of "The Complete History of Air Combat" is an exhilarating, in-depth look at the world of air warfare. Combining historical footage and insightful commentary from veteran pilots, this episode shows just how vital air power has been in shaping the course of countless conflicts throughout history. Any military history enthusiast or aviation buff will find this episode a must-see.