Traces the evolution of the submarine from its ancient beginnings through its culmination as a military vessel, discussing such topics as the buoyancy discoveries of Archimedes, the designs of David Bushnell, and the role of subs in nuclear warfare. "At the heart of this thrilling narrative lurks danger and power, as acclaimed naval writer Iain Ballantyne reveals some of warfare's murkiest secrets. The cast of colorful characters includes an American...

"Silent Killers traces the history of the most deadly hunter in the ocean. For hundreds of years the submarine has stalked prey ranging from the ironclads of the American Civil War through to the vulnerable Atlantic Convoys, which were torn to shreds by packs of U-boats during World War 2, and to this day nuclear-powered subs prowl the depths."--

Discusses the top-secret Japanese submarine project in World War II, creating submarines designed to work as underwater aircraft carriers, and the planned attack on U.S. cities that could have changed the outcome of the war.