Ep 3. Thunderbolts

Dogfights is a documentary series that focuses on some of the most intense air battles in history. Using a mix of CGI animation, archive footage, and interviews with veterans, each episode provides a detailed and visceral account of the aerial combat. Season 2 episode 3 is titled Thunderbolts.

The episode begins by setting the historical context. It is 1943, and the Allied forces are making progress in Europe. However, the Luftwaffe is still a force to be reckoned with, and the skies over Germany are filled with German fighters. The main aircraft of the Allied forces at this time is the P-47 Thunderbolt, a rugged and powerful plane that can deliver devastating firepower.

The first combat sequence takes place over France. A squadron of P-47 Thunderbolts is on a bombing mission when they are intercepted by a group of German fighters. The two sides engage in a dogfight, with each pilot trying to outmaneuver and outshoot their opponent. The animation is excellent, with the planes twisting and turning in the sky as they exchange fire.

The battle is intense and chaotic, with multiple planes flying in different directions at the same time. However, the Allied pilots are able to use their superior tactics and communication to gain the upper hand. They manage to shoot down several of the German planes before making it back to their base safely.

The second combat sequence takes place over Germany. The Allied forces have begun a bombing campaign against German factories and infrastructure, and the Germans are doing everything they can to stop them. Once again, a squadron of P-47 Thunderbolts is on a mission when they are intercepted by German fighters.

This battle is even more intense than the first, with a larger number of planes involved. The animation does an excellent job of conveying the chaos and confusion of the battle, with planes flying in all directions and firing their guns.

The pilots on both sides are skilled and experienced, and the battle is a true test of their abilities. Despite facing heavy resistance, the Allied pilots are able to hold their own and shoot down several of the German planes.

The episode also includes interviews with veterans who flew the P-47 Thunderbolt during World War II. They describe the plane's strengths and weaknesses, and how they used it to fight against the Germans. Their insights provide a valuable perspective on the aerial combat of the time.

Overall, Thunderbolts is a thrilling episode of Dogfights that provides a vivid depiction of the aerial combat of World War II. The animation is top-notch, and the interviews with veterans add depth and context to the story. For anyone interested in military history or aviation, this episode is a must-watch.