Aircraft Carriers and the Hellcat

Overview

Aircraft carrier development started as soon as the Wright brothers took to the air. However, it wasn't until WWII that the practice of using planes off floating platforms was tested in combat conditions. In this episode we explore the early development of the Aircraft Carrier. We also look at the Grumman Hellcat whose military record stands alone. This plane was one of history's best ever fighters - it had speed and manoeuvrability and it was extremely sturdy.