WW2 Pod: We Have Ways of Making You Talk Swordfish, Stalingrad, & Uniting Nations
Jan 1, 2026
Discover the intriguing reasons behind the Soviets bringing a brass band to Finland. Explore the significance of the Arcadia Conference and debates around Stalingrad as a turning point in the war. Delve into the challenges faced by Fleet Air Arm crews in Arctic operations and the impressive versatility of the Swordfish aircraft. Uncover the hopes for postwar cooperation articulated by Roosevelt and the impact of Operation Bodenplatte in late-war strategies. Plus, reflections on the legacy of war commemoration through architect Edward Lutyens.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
String-Bag Radar Spotters
- James Holland describes Swordfish biplanes fitted with radar guiding other aircraft onto targets at sea.
- He highlights their 30-mile radar range and adaptation for modern ASW roles despite being a biplane.
Rocket-Boosted Biplanes
- Al Murray and James Holland recount Swordfish fitted with rocket-assisted takeoff gear.
- They emphasize the surreal image of a fabric biplane with RATOG snouts for extra punch on takeoff.
Terrifying Arctic Deck Landings
- James Holland reads an account of Arctic deck landings showing extreme danger and precise timing.
- The pilot describes nearly snapping his tail wheel when the pitching deck rose and fell violently during landing.