Battle for the Skies
Produced with the full support and co-operation of the Royal Air Force, Battle for the Skies is the definitive film history of the RAF from the early days of the Air Battalion and the Royal Flying Corps right up to today.
- 1999-1999
- 1 season
- Documentary, Action & Adventure
Produced with the full support and co-operation of the Royal Air Force, Battle for the Skies is the definitive film history of the RAF from the early days of the Air Battalion and the Royal Flying Corps right up to today.
Season 1 Episode Guide
7 Episodes 1999
Episode 1
Useless for the Purposes of War
The series begins before the First World War when military commanders struggled to understand what uses aviation might have.
Episode 2
Under Distant Skies
The 1920s and 30s were uncertain times for the RAF, as well as all other armed services. With peace came cuts in spending on new aircraft development.
Episode 3
A Vicious Sting
By the end of the war, the RAF had aircraft that could escort bombers to target deep inside Germany and back. The Hawker Hunter and F-86 Sabre took the RAF supersonic.
Episode 4
Strike Hard, Strike Sure
By the end of the First World War, the RAF had bombers that could fly to Berlin and back. British civilians found themselves under direct attack - by Zeppelin airships.
Episode 5
By Sea, By Air
Between the wars the RAF operated elegant flying boats to patrol the far flung corners of the Empire. The boats flew long missions over the oceans, looking for enemy submarines.
Episode 6
Supplies from the Skies
After the war, RAF transports helped keep Berliners alive during the Soviet blockade of the city in 1948/49. As well as flying round-the-clock operations into the airport.
Episode 7
The Sky's the Limit
We bring the RAF story into the modern era. Another aircraft to have extended the RAF's capabilities is the C130 Hercules.