Submarines traces the history of the ships that have revolutionized warfare. Historians tell of the very first submarine mission during the Civil War and examine the legendary German fleets from both World Wars, where the subs' effectiveness was proven beyond a doubt. Go aboard subs from throughout the years and see how they evolved into their ultimate form--the "boomer." And hear from the daring sailors who risk their lives on silent missions below the waves.

Originally produced as a segment from The History Channel series Weapons at war, 1992.