Ep 7. Korea: Stalin?s Secret Air War

During the Korean War, the Soviet Union launched a secret air campaign to support their North Korean allies. In season 2, episode 7 of Secrets of War, titled "Korea: Stalin's Secret Air War," the viewer is taken on a journey through this little-known aspect of the conflict.

The episode begins by setting the stage for the Korean War and the Soviet Union's involvement. With archival footage and historical reenactments, the viewer is transported back to the early 1950s, when tensions were high between the United States and Soviet Union. The episode explains how the Soviet Union provided significant military support to North Korea, including tanks, artillery, and airplanes. However, what was not widely known at the time was the extent of their air campaign.

The episode goes on to reveal how Stalin approved a secret air war, in which Soviet pilots would fly North Korean planes while wearing North Korean uniforms and using North Korean call signs. The purpose of this secrecy was to avoid direct conflict with the United States and its allies. This way, the Soviets could deny any involvement in the air war if caught.

To explore how this secret air war was carried out, the episode features interviews with historians and military experts, as well as archival footage and computer-generated recreations of key events. The viewer learns about the challenges that Soviet pilots faced, such as navigating unfamiliar terrain and dealing with unreliable equipment. Despite these challenges, the pilots managed to fly hundreds of sorties, attacking strategic targets such as bridges, airfields, and naval vessels.

One of the most interesting aspects of the episode is the focus on the impact of the Soviet air campaign on the course of the war. Through interviews with veterans and historians, the viewer gains insight into how these attacks affected both sides. For example, the destruction of bridges and other infrastructure made it difficult for UN forces to advance, while attacks on naval vessels disrupted supply lines. On the other hand, the Soviet pilots also suffered heavy losses, with many planes shot down by UN forces.

Overall, "Korea: Stalin's Secret Air War" offers a fascinating look at a little-known aspect of the Korean War. The episode provides historical context and expert analysis, while also offering a glimpse into the experiences of those who fought in this secret conflict. Whether you are a history buff or simply curious about this period in world history, Secrets of War: Korea is definitely worth watching.