After the fall of France during the Second World War, Britain became an isolated nation - dependent on the strength of it's coastal forces to keep the Axis powers at bay. The task to protect the small island nation fell on 2000 small, wooden boats to fight back against the enemy no matter the weather. But how successful were these forces, and why did they earn the nickname the 'Spitfires of the Seas'?
In todays episode, James is joined by archaeologist and historian Stephen Fisher, to help shine a light on this often overlooked subject. Looking at the origins of these vital boats from both World Wars, through to their repurposed lives now - what do we know about the Spitfires of the Sea?
For more Warfare content, subscribe to our Warfare newsletter here.
If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and audiobooks at History Hit - enter promo code WARFARE for a free trial, plus 50% off your first three months' subscription
Wagner & Putin: The Russian Coup?
War Crimes in Afghanistan
WW2: Forgotten Mission of the 6888th Battalion
5 Assassinations That Changed History
Ukraine: The Counter Offensive Explained
Napalm
Vietnam War & Australia
D-Day: US Airpower with WW2 Veteran Chuck Richardson
War Gaming the 19th Century
Henry Kissinger
Battle of Aden
WW2: Last Letters of Resistance Fighters
Sudan: Why Is There A Conflict?
The Dambusters Raid with Max Hastings
Hiding Anne Frank
Duke of Wellington
Charles III Coronation: Security & Threats
WW2 Tanks with James Holland
Waco & the Origins of Right-Wing Extremism
War in Space with Tim Marshall
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
Dan Snow’s History Hit
The Ancients
How and Why History
Historical Fiction
Darius Arya Digs