The development and use of poison gas, beginning in WWI with its use by the Germans as a weapon of mass destruction. Included: phosgene, chlorine and mustard gas.

Biological warfare research is examined, beginning with experiments by the Japanese in the 1930s using anthrax. Also: British and American germ warfare projects.

The development of radar technology is charted, beginning in 1940 with Britain's "cavity magnetron," which gave the Allies the ability to detect the enemy first.

"Rocket Men" chronicles the development of ballistic missiles, and how they ultimately determined the balance of global power in the 20th century. Roger Mudd hosts.

Interviews and archival footage highlight this chronicle of the Russian nuclear weapons program. Special attention is paid to research and development in a top-secret city, where the Russians perfected their hydrogen bomb.