Combat Ships, Courageous Captains

Many fearless captains have led their ships into battle over the centuries, so celebrate some of history's greatest maritime heroes.

Combat ships are built to survive, but some blasts are simply too powerful. Dive in and revisit some of the most spectacular explosions in maritime history.

Celebrate the heroes who often found themselves fighting two battles - one against the enemy and one against racism within their own ranks.

Thanks to the heroic acts of sailors, America scored a stunning win in the battle of Guadalcanal, loosening Japan's mighty grip on the Pacific.

Mutinies have remained rare over the centuries of naval history, but when they do happen they are highly charged and often inspiring events.

Examine America's fantastic success stories against raiders, with brilliant tactics, bold crews and some mighty combat ships.

Discover some of history's most ground-breaking vessels, from Britain's HMS Warrior of 1860 to the German battlecruisers of WWII.

Discover some of history's most effective and deceptive lightning strikes, achieving victory through speed, precision and the element of surprise.