The Best 2000s Military TV Shows

Ranker TV
Updated April 30, 2024 29 items
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The best 2000s military TV shows come in many forms. Some top '00s military series are dramas, and other good 2000s military TV shows are comedies. World War II, the Civil War and the Vietnam War are just a few of the events covered in the programs on this list.

What are some of the series that you will find on this best 2000s military TV shows list? The HBO mini-series, Band of Brothers, took real-life stories of the U.S. Army's Easy Company and transformed them into an award-winning TV program. Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks served as executive producers of the project. The Unit is another good military show that aired during the 2000s.

Foyle's War used the setting of WWII to create an entertaining and engaging detective series. Other great programs featured on this top 2000s military shows list include JAG, The State Within and Lock N' Load with R. Lee Ermey.

Which 2000s military show is the best? Vote up your favorite '00s military TV show below, and be sure to let us know what you think in the comment section. 
Most divisive: Tank Overhaul
Over 900 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best 2000s Military TV Shows
  • Band of Brothers
    1
    Damian Lewis, Ron Livingston, Rick Gomez
    334 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveThe Pacific, Generation Kill, Saving Private Ryan (movie), World War II in Color (documentary), The Thin Red Line (movie)
    Why Should I Stream? For those who appreciate a gripping historical drama, Band of Brothers stands as an essential watch. The miniseries boasts a high production value and an ensemble cast that delivers powerful performances. Its ability to delve deep into the personal experiences of soldiers during WWII sets it apart from other war-themed shows, making it both poignant and compelling.

    Band of Brothers, a gripping World War II miniseries, delves into the harrowing experiences and unwavering camaraderie of Easy Company, a unit of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment. With masterful storytelling, the show garnered critical acclaim, earning numerous awards including a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Miniseries. The ensemble cast skillfully portrays real-life soldiers, such as Major Richard Winters (Damian Lewis) and Captain Lewis Nixon (Ron Livingston), capturing the essence of their valiant struggles and sacrifices. From the treacherous airborne landings in Normandy to the war's bitter end, Band of Brothers remains a poignant tribute to the Greatest Generation's heroism.
  • Mail Call
    2
    R. Lee Ermey
    220 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveModern Marvels: Military Tech, Weapon Masters, Future Weapons, Military Channel - Top Tens, Ancient Discoveries
    Why Should I Stream? Mail Call provides an intriguing glimpse into the world of military trivia, featuring retired Marine R. Lee Ermey as an engaging host. The show is lauded for its unique format and educational value, offering viewers a chance to learn about various aspects of military history in an entertaining manner. This series is perfect for history buffs or anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of military culture.

    Mail Call was a television program that appeared on the History Channel and hosted by R. Lee Ermey, a retired United States Marine Corps Staff Sergeant,. The show debuted on August 4, 2002 as part of the 'Fighting Fridays' lineup. Most episodes were 30 minutes, but from 2007 through the show's end in 2009 some episodes were 60 minutes. During each episode, Ermey read and answered questions submitted by viewers regarding weapons and equipment used by all branches of the U.S. military now or in the past, as well as by other armed forces in history. Ermey often took his viewers on location to military training areas to film demonstrations and consult with experts. When not on location, Ermey broadcast from a set resembling a military outpost, including a tent, a Jeep, and various other pieces of military gear which changed throughout the series. At times, he would also have a bulldog - usually symbolic of Marines, especially drill instructors - on his show as well.
  • Lock N' Load with R. Lee Ermey
    3
    R. Lee Ermey, Anthony De Longis, Gary Archer
    187 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveGunnyTime with R. Lee Ermey, Weaponology, Triggers: Weapons That Changed the World, Tales of the Gun, Deadliest Warrior
    Why Should I Stream? Delving deeper into the fascinating realm of weapons and military technology, Lock N' Load with R. Lee Ermey showcases the iconic former Marine's expertise in this captivating series. Viewers will be enthralled by the detailed demonstrations and explanations of various firearms and weaponry used throughout history while learning valuable insights on their development and use in combat.

    Lock n' Load with R. Lee Ermey was a reality television series about the development of military weaponry throughout the centuries. Hosted by actor and former U.S. Marine drill instructor R. Lee Ermey, its one season originally aired on the History channel in 2009.
  • The War
    4
    Keith David
    155 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveWWII in HD, Apocalypse: World War II, World at War, World War II in Colour, The Price of Empire
    Why Should I Stream? Ken Burns's renowned documentary style takes center stage in The War, providing a comprehensive look at the realities faced by everyday Americans during WWII across four U.S towns – Laverne, Mobile, Sacramento, and Waterbury – away from the front lines; thus showcasing its sheer domestic impact rather than focusing solely on battles fought overseas. Its deeply human approach to storytelling has earned it critical acclaim and solidified its place as one of the most influential documentaries ever made.

    Individuals from four American towns recount their journeys of war.
  • Dogfights
    5
    Phil Crowley, Frederick Blesse, Ralph Parr
    126 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveDogfights: The Greatest Air Battles (documentary), Fighter Pilot: Operation Red Flag (documentary), Air Aces (series), Wings of the Red Star (series), The Century of Warfare: Air Power
    Why Should I Stream? Combining expert analysis with stunning computer-generated imagery (CGI), Dogfights is a must-watch for aviation enthusiasts or anyone interested in aerial warfare tactics throughout history; each episode recreates famous aerial engagements from WWI through more recent conflicts, like the Vietnam War and Gulf War. This series has been praised for its ability to provide a high-quality and immersive experience, placing viewers right in the cockpit to give them a thrilling perspective on these historic battles.

    Dogfights is a military aviation themed TV series depicting historical re-enactments of air-to-air combat that took place in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, as well as smaller conflicts such as the Gulf War and the Six-Day War. The program consists of former fighter pilots sharing their stories of actual dogfights in which they took part, combined with computer-generated imagery to give the viewer a better perspective of what it is like to engage in aerial combat. Dogfights originally aired on the History Channel from November 2006 to May 2008.
  • JAG
    6
    David James Elliott, Catherine Bell, Patrick Laborteaux
    171 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveNCIS, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Boston Legal, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Blue Bloods
    Why Should I Stream? Fans of legal dramas with a military twist will find themselves hooked on JAG – this long-running series follows Navy lawyers as they navigate complex legal cases and personal conflicts within the U.S. Department of Defense. Its mix of procedural elements, emotional character dynamics, and intriguing storylines ensure that each episode keeps viewers invested in the lives and challenges faced by its protagonists.

    In a seamless fusion of military drama and legal intrigue, this long-running series delves deep into the high-stakes world of the United States Navy's Judge Advocate General's Corps. Through the eyes of determined characters such as Lt. Cmdr. Harmon Rabb (David James Elliott) and Lt. Col. Sarah MacKenzie (Catherine Bell), the show explores complex cases involving criminal investigations, ethical dilemmas, and international disputes. Spanning ten seasons,JAG is often lauded for its accurate portrayal of military life and thought-provoking storylines. With an ensemble cast delivering compelling performances, this TV gem remains a classic in the annals of television history.
  • 20th Century Battlefields
    7
    Peter Snow, Dan Snow, Max Bollinger
    96 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveDan Carlin's Hardcore History (podcast), Battles BC, Great Battles of Rome (documentary), Timeline documentaries on historical battles, Battlefield Detectives
    Why Should I Stream? Hosted by father-and-son duo Peter and Dan Snow, 20th Century Battlefields takes viewers on an immersive journey through pivotal battles from WWI to the early 21st century. The series' combination of expert analysis, gripping storytelling, and stunning visuals creates a captivating exploration of military history that is sure to pique any viewer's interest.

    20th Century Battlefields is a BBC documentary television series hosted by television and radio personality Peter Snow, and his son Dan Snow. Episodes cover the major battles of the twentieth century, and is best known for its extensive use of "sand table" CGI effects to help viewers visualize the battles.
  • The Unit
    8
    Dennis Haysbert, Scott Foley, Robert Patrick
    242 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveSpecial Forces Heroes, Six, Rogue Warrior : Robot Fighter (movie), S.W.A.T., Navy SEALs vs Zombies (movie)
    Why Should I Stream? Offering an adrenaline-fueled glimpse into the world of elite special forces operations, The Unit showcases tactically challenging missions executed by members of a top-secret U.S Army division. With its intense action sequences and engaging character development, this series provides both thrilling entertainment and insight into the pressures faced by those who serve at the highest levels of military command.

    The Unit, which premiered on March 7, 2006, is a thrilling action-drama series that follows the lives of a top-secret military team executing covert missions abroad while their families navigate life back home. The show offers a dual perspective on the personal and professional challenges faced by these special forces operatives. Notable cast members include Dennis Haysbert and Robert Patrick who deliver gripping performances as leaders of the elite squad. The Unit, during its four-season run, received an Emmy Award for Outstanding Stunt Coordination, underscoring its commitment to powerful action sequences.
  • Over There
    9
    Josh Henderson, Erik Palladino, Keith D. Robinson
    112 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveGeneration Kill, Soldier's Girl (movie), Home of the Brave (movie), The Mark of War (documentary), Occupation: Dreamland (documentary)
    Why Should I Stream? Tackling themes such as camaraderie, sacrifice, patriotism, and PTSD head-on; Over There delivers an authentic portrayal of U.S soldiers during their deployment in Iraq – following both their battlefield experiences abroad and effects on loved ones back home simultaneously; as such giving viewers a comprehensive understanding of modern warfare's impact on service members' lives from various perspectives. The raw emotionality brought forth through powerful performances will leave audiences emotionally invested in characters' journeys.

    A U.S. Army Unit is sent to Iraq for their first tour of duty.
  • War Stories with Oliver North
    10
    Oliver North, Adolf Hitler, Franklin D. Roosevelt
    116 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveLegends of WWII, History Undercover, Warrior POV, Battle Stations, Warrior Graveyard
    Why Should I Stream? In this absorbing documentary series hosted by decorated former Marine Lt. Col. Oliver North, viewers are treated to firsthand accounts of war through the eyes of veterans spanning across various conflicts in American history. War Stories' unique approach to storytelling allows for a deeply personal connection with its subjects, making it an indispensable watch for anyone interested in understanding the human side of warfare.

    War Stories was a military history program on the Fox News Channel. Hosted by Oliver North, of Iran–Contra affair fame, the program covered a number of different stories relating to war and national defense, featuring individuals who were directly involved with the topic covered in the episode. Each episode focused on one of three areas: A particular noteworthy individual, such as George Patton or Douglas MacArthur A particular battle, such as the Battle of Hamburger Hill A segment devoted to a specific topic, such as the use of animals in the military or the Huey The episodes were often based on current events; the episode which aired August 6, 2006 featured the history of Fidel Castro's rise to power while the prior week's episode centered on Hezbollah. North ends the episode with the tagline, "his/hers/theirs is a war story, that deserves to be told". As of January 3, 2015, War Stores with Oliver North is aired on the weekends from 8-11 p.m. ET on Fox Business Network.
  • Greatest Tank Battles
    11
    Robin Ward, Ralf Raths, Robin Ward
    39 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Tank Overhaul, Tanks! Heavy Metal at War, Inside Mighty Machines: Tanks, Massive Engines: Tanks, Armored Combat League
    Why Should I Stream? Greatest Tank Battles dives into the heart-pounding action of armored warfare, using CGI and expert analysis to recreate some of history's most monumental tank confrontations. This series is perfect for military enthusiasts or those looking for high-stakes action that showcases the power and strategy behind these colossal machines.

    Greatest Tank Battles is a military documentary series currently airing on History Television and National Geographic Channel in Canada, where it premiered on 4 January 2010. The series was subsequently picked up in the United States by the Military Channel, where it premiered on 5 January 2011. The second season premiered in Canada on 17 January 2011. The show is also broadcast on Discovery Networks throughout Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Other countries where the show has signed broadcast deals include India and China, with a DVD deal in Australia.
  • Tank Overhaul
    12
    Andrew Pifko, Yuri Desyatnik, Roy Robertson
    91 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveGreatest Tank Battles, Tanks! Heavy Metal at War, Restoration Garage, Chasing Classic Cars, Auto/Biography
    Why Should I Stream? For fans of engineering marvels and military history alike, Tank Overhaul presents a fascinating look at the restoration processes undertaken by passionate experts working on bringing vintage tanks back to life; each episode documenting their hard work and dedication towards preserving these magnificent machines. The show provides both educational insights into tank designs throughout various eras and appreciation for the skillful craftsmanship required in their restoration.

    Tank Overhaul is a Canadian documentary television program broadcast on the Military Channel starting in 2007. Episodes are filmed at the Isle of Wight Military Museum as well as other organizations specializing in military history vehicle restoration and preservation.
  • Dark Angel
    13
    Jessica Alba, Michael Weatherly, Richard Gunn
    8 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveDollhouse, Tru Calling, Kyle XY, The Pretender, Alphas
    Why Should I Stream? Dark Angel stands as a cult classic sci-fi series featuring Jessica Alba as a genetically engineered soldier on the run from her creators in a dystopian future. With its exciting blend of action, drama, and romance amidst a unique futuristic setting, this show offers viewers an enthralling experience that is sure to resonate with fans of science fiction thrillers.

    A genetically enhanced superhuman named Max hides from her military handlers in a futuristic city.
  • Army Wives
    14
    Catherine Bell, Brian McNamara, Kelli Williams
    12 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: The Unit, Parenthood, Brothers and Sisters, The Good Wife, Call the Midwife
    Why Should I Stream? Chronicling the lives of four women and one man connected through their military spouses, Army Wives tells compelling stories that delve deep into themes like friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice against the backdrop of life on an Army base. The show's strong ensemble cast and emotionally resonant storylines make it a fascinating watch for viewers who appreciate character-driven dramas with a military twist.

    A group of women and one man live with their spouses on an Army base.
  • Redcap
    15

    Redcap

    Ian McShane, John Thaw
    9 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveSpecial Branch, Z-Cars, Dixon of Dock Green, Softly Softly Task Force, The Sweeney
    Why Should I Stream? Redcap is an intriguing British crime drama centered around Sgt. John Mann (played by John Thaw), a member of the British Army Special Investigation Branch tasked with solving crimes within military ranks during his time stationed in Germany during the 1960s; this procedural-style show offers suspenseful entertainment while providing insight into Army life throughout that era – making it an appealing choice for fans of both crime dramas and historical television shows alike.

    Redcap is a British television series produced by ABC Weekend Television and broadcast on the ITV network. It starred John Thaw as Sergeant John Mann, a member of the Special Investigation Branch of the Royal Military Police and ran for two series and 26 episodes between 1964 and 1966, being about 50 minutes in a 60 minute time slot. Surprisingly for a 1960s ABC Weekend Television programme, 23 of the 26 episodes still exist.
  • Sharpe
    16
    Sean Bean
    96 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveHornblower, Poldark, Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (movie), War and Peace (2016 miniseries), Outlander
    Why Should I Stream? Set during the Napoleonic Wars and starring Sean Bean in his career-defining role as Richard Sharpe – an officer in Wellington's famed 95th Rifles – this British historical drama combines action-packed battle sequences with gripping character development; making it a must-watch for fans of period war dramas or anyone seeking high-quality storytelling amidst an expertly recreated historical setting.

    Following the adventures of Richard Sharpe, a fictional British soldier in the Napoleonic Wars.
  • NCIS: Los Angeles
    17
    Chris O'Donnell, LL Cool J, Linda Hunt
    155 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveNCIS, Hawaii Five-O, Criminal Minds, Bones, Law & Order: Criminal Intent
    Why Should I Stream? Building upon the success of its parent show (NCIS), NCIS: Los Angeles offers viewers exciting crime-solving adventures combined with intriguing glimpses into the dynamics among members of an elite team within Naval Criminal Investigative Service; assigned to high-stakes cases involving national security threats in L.A area. Its potent mix of suspenseful storylines, compelling characters, and uniquely Californian setting ensures that each episode captivates audiences whilst keeping them invested in broader narrative arcs.

    OSP agents track criminals who threaten national security.
  • Spetznaz
    18
    8 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveRussia's Toughest Prisons (documentary), Russian Military Power(documentary), National Geographic - Inside Spetsnaz, Russia's Deadliest Warrior: Spetsnaz Vs Delta Force, Russia's Secret Elite Police Forces
    Why Should I Stream? Offering viewers an unprecedented look at Russia's most elite special forces unit, Spetznaz sheds light on the training, tactics, and operations of these highly skilled soldiers. This thrilling series is a must-watch for those interested in understanding the inner workings of one of the world's most formidable military units.

    Spetsnaz is a 2002 Russian TV miniseries directed by Andrei Malyukov.
  • Battlefield Britain
    19
    75 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveTime Team, Monarchy by David Starkey, Coast, Ancient Impossible, The Dark Ages: An Age of Light
    Why Should I Stream? Taking a fresh approach to exploring some pivotal moments throughout British history; Battlefield Britain uses expert analysis from father-and-son duo Peter and Dan Snow along with engaging visual aids such as CGI-reimaginings to bring past events vividly back to life – offering educational entertainment that will appeal to history enthusiasts or casual viewers alike.

    Battlefield Britain is a 2004 BBC television documentary series about famous battles in the history of Great Britain. From Boudicca's destructive rebellion against the Romans to the incredible feats of The Few who saw off the Luftwaffe, these battles all had wide-reaching consequences and implications for the future of the British isles. The series is presented by father and son team Peter and Dan Snow with Peter explaining the battleplans of the generals while Dan explores the sites to give the perspective of the common soldier, sailors and airmen. The episodes also featured "interviews" with soldiers from both sides, re-enactments of the battles and computer generated scenes with bird eye views and blocks to show troop movement. In Australia, all eight episodes aired on SBS TV in its As It Happened history timeslot each Saturday at 7:30pm from 22 January until 12 March 2005.
  • Ultimate Force
    20
    Ross Kemp, Miles Anderson, Christopher Fox
    77 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveSAS: Who Dares Wins (reality show), The SAS Files (documentary series), Special Forces Heroes (docudrama), STRIKE BACK, Ross Kemp Behind the Story
    Why Should I Stream? Ultimate Force delivers an adrenaline-fueled journey into the world of an elite British military unit as they undertake dangerous missions and navigate personal challenges within their ranks; it's a captivating watch for those intrigued by the realities faced by special forces operators – showcasing intense action sequences alongside character-driven storylines that keep viewers emotionally invested in its protagonists.

    Drama series set within the elite fighting force team of the SAS.
  • Sea Patrol
    21
    John Batchelor, Matthew Holmes, Lisa McCune
    73 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveMcHale's Navy, High Tide, Yacht Rock, The Onedin Line, LAST RESORT
    Why Should I Stream? Set against the beautiful backdrop of Australia's Great Barrier Reef, this action-packed drama chronicles life aboard a Royal Australian Navy patrol boat while tackling issues such as illegal fishing, smuggling, and border protection. Sea Patrol offers audiences engaging character dynamics interwoven with riveting maritime adventures that are sure to keep them entertained.

    Sea Patrol is an Australian television drama that ran from 2007 to 2011, set on board HMAS Hammersley, a fictional patrol boat of the Royal Australian Navy. The series focuses on the ship and the lives of its crew members. Despite similarities in setting and content, this series is not a follow-on to the 1979 series, Patrol Boat. At the start of the second season, Sea Patrol saw an upgrade from the Fremantle class to a newer Armidale class boat. The first season debuted on 5 July 2007 on the Nine Network, who invested $15 million into the programme. The second season of Sea Patrol, titled Sea Patrol II: The Coup, aired in 2008, while the third season, Sea Patrol: Red Gold, aired in 2009. The fourth season aired in 2010 in a new 16-episode format, with no main theme or continuous storyline running throughout, unlike the first three seasons. The fifth season of Sea Patrol, "Damage Control", began airing in 2011 and consisted of 13 episodes. The Nine Network has confirmed that this was to be the final season, due to reliance on government rebates that expire after 65 episodes. Completion of series five brings the total episode count to 68 episodes.
  • Watch This Show If You Love: Future Weapons, MegaStructures, Hyperspeed, Destroyed In Seconds, Green Lantern (animated)
    Why Should I Stream? This fascinating documentary series explores cutting-edge military technology from around the world, providing insights into revolutionary developments shaping modern warfare. Viewers will be enthralled by Future Fighting Machines' showcase of innovative weaponry and groundbreaking advancements in defense systems – making it a must-watch for fans of science, engineering, or military strategy alike.

    Future Fighting Machines was a TV programme which examines the latest innovations in military hardware and military technology. It was produced by Tiger Aspect Productions. It has been broadcast on The Discovery Channel, TechTV and UKTV History. Each episode ran for 30 minutes, and the show ran for two seasons. The programme shows the ambition of weapon developers worldwide to make soldiers less vulnerable and more lethal. The program also looks at new weapons that strike more accurately and unmanned vehicles run entirely by computers. The programme made comparisons between rival weapon systems of different countries, showing advantages and disadvantages of weapons. There was also a profile of a different special forces unit in each episode. Below is a list of episodes: Camouflage technology Virtual reality training for soldiers The future of warfare An American warship Methods of destroying tanks Unmanned underwater vehicles America's latest amphibious assault vehicle The Apache Longbow helicopter The world's largest unmanned spy plane The Joint Strike Fighter Mine warfare technology A new flying petrol station The dangers of future urban combat A portable missile launcher
  • Foyle's War
    23
    Michael Kitchen, Anthony Howell, Honeysuckle Weeks
    75 votes

    Watch This Show If You LovePoirot, Midsomer Murders, A Touch of Frost, The Bletchley Circle, Waking the Dead
    Why Should I Stream? Blending historical accuracy with masterful storytelling, Foyle's War tells gripping tales of criminal investigation during WWII-era Britain; following Michael Kitchen as Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle – whose dogged pursuit of justice contrasts starkly against chaotic wartime backdrop unfolding around him. This acclaimed series is essential viewing for fans of crime dramas set amidst historically rich context offering suspenseful entertainment imbued with thought-provoking themes relevant to contemporary society.

    Foyle's War is a British detective drama set against the backdrop of World War II, which premiered on October 27, 2002. The series focuses on Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle (Michael Kitchen), who investigates crimes on the home front while the war rages across Europe. Aided by his driver Samantha Stewart (Honeysuckle Weeks) and his Sergeant, Paul Milner (Anthony Howell), Foyle contends with the challenges of wartime conditions, espionage, and the moral complexities of a society under the stress of constant threat. The show intertwines personal drama with historical events. It touch on themes of justice, loyalty, and the gray areas of war.
  • E-Ring
    24

    E-Ring

    Benjamin Bratt, Aunjanue Ellis, Dennis Hopper
    60 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: The Agency, JAG, Crisis at the White House, West Wing, Threat Matrix
    Why Should I Stream? Focused on depicting high-stakes decision-making processes within Pentagon’s Special Operations Division – E-Ring provides viewers thrilling insights into how top-secret operations are organized and executed by U.S military establishment; its combination of fast-paced political intrigue coupled with compelling ensemble cast ensures engaging experience for audience members who appreciate fusion between drama/action genres in television shows centered on sensitive geopolitical issues.

    E-Ring is an American television military drama, created by Ken Robinson and David McKenna and executive produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, that premiered on NBC on September 21, 2005. The title of the show refers to the structure of The Pentagon, which is configured in five concentric rings, from "A" to "E", with E being the outermost ring. Before any military action can be taken anywhere in the world the mission must be planned and approved by the most important ring of the Pentagon, the E-ring. This is where the more high-profile work is done, all operations must be legally approved and the green light given by the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The show starred Benjamin Bratt as Major James Tisnewski, a former Delta Force operator and Dennis Hopper as Colonel Eli McNulty, as officers working in the E-ring of the Pentagon in the Special Operations Division – planning and co-ordinating covert US special operations actions around the globe. The show struggled from the onset because it was up against ABC's Top 20 hit Lost, CBS's Top 30 hit Criminal Minds, FOX's Top 10 hit American Idol and the network's Top 30 hit Unan1mous.
  • The State Within
    25
    Jason Isaacs, Ben Daniels, Eva Birthistle
    60 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: House of Cards, The Honourable Woman, Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy (miniseries), Spies of Warsaw, The Night Manager
    Why Should I Stream? This critically acclaimed British political thriller follows the exploits of a British ambassador in Washington, D.C., as he's drawn into a complex web of conspiracy and deception. With its intricate plotlines, intense character dynamics, and exploration of contemporary political themes; The State Within will appeal to fans of sophisticated, high-stakes drama.

    Sir Mark Brydon, the British Ambassador to Washington, is faced with a terrible dilemma.
  • Making Waves
    26
    Angel Coulby, Joanna Page, Geoff Bell
    59 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: Shipwrecked, The Last Ship, Treasure Island, Cutthroat Island (movie), Gilligan's Island
    Why Should I Stream? Making Waves provides viewers with an authentic portrayal of life aboard a Royal Navy frigate – showcasing both thrilling action sequences and compelling character-driven storylines set against the backdrop of global maritime operations. This series is perfect for those fascinated by naval warfare or interested in learning about life on the high seas.

    Making Waves is a British television drama series produced by Carlton Television for ITV. It was created by Ted Childs and chronicles the professional and personal lives of the crew of the Royal Navy frigate HMS Suffolk. The series remained in development hell for several years and was first broadcast on 7 July 2004. However, due to low ratings it was removed from the schedules after only three episodes, the remainder of the series going unaired on television in the United Kingdom. The series starred Alex Ferns as Commander Martin Brooke and Emily Hamilton as Lieutenant Commander Jenny Howard. The frigate HMS Grafton stood in for Suffolk and additional filming took place around HMNB Portsmouth with the full co-operation of the Royal Navy. A limited-edition DVD of all six episodes was released in December 2004.
  • Changi
    27
    Stephen Curry, Leon Ford, Anthony Hayes
    56 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveThe Pacific, Tenko, Banzai Runner (movie), Empire of the Sun (movie), Paradise Road (movie)
    Why Should I Stream? Changi tells the heart-wrenching story of Australian soldiers held as prisoners-of-war during WWII within Japanese-controlled camps; focusing on their struggle for survival amidst brutal conditions while fostering bonds that transcend adversity – this miniseries serves as a powerful reminder of human resilience faced with unimaginable hardship. Its poignant narrative and emotional depth make it essential viewing for anyone seeking profound storytelling set amidst historically significant events.

    Changi is a six-part Australian television miniseries broadcast by ABC TV in 2001. It originally aired from 14 October 2001 to 18 November 2001.
  • Piece of Cake
    28
    Neil Dudgeon, George Anton, Boyd Gaines
    55 votes

    Watch This Show If You LoveWings, Aces High(movie), Reaching for the Skies(documentary), Das Boot(miniseries), Memphis Belle(movie)
    Why Should I Stream? Based on the bestselling novel by Derek Robinson, Piece of Cake chronicles the lives and experiences of RAF pilots during WWII – offering viewers an immersive look at aerial combat strategies combined with emotionally charged character development that highlights personal sacrifices inherent in fulfilling one's duty under extreme circumstances; these elements create an engaging experience that resonates with fans historical dramas alike.

    Piece of Cake is a six-part 1988 television series, depicting the life of a Royal Air Force fighter squadron from the day of the British entry into World War II through to one of the toughest days in the Battle of Britain. The series was produced by Holmes Associates for London Weekend Television and had a budget of 5 million pounds. The series is based on the 1983 novel Piece of Cake, by Derek Robinson. In the book, the squadron is equipped with Hurricanes. The relative rarity of airworthy Hurricanes in the late 1980s precluded their use in the television series. The squadron depicted is the fictional Hornet Squadron, which is equipped with Supermarine Spitfire fighters, and deployed to France, where it waits out the Phoney War in comfort and elegance, until the German attack on Western Europe in May 1940. One by one, nearly all of the original pilots are killed and as losses mount, the character of the squadron changes from a casual nonchalance to a fight for survival. By the end of the series, only four of the original fourteen officers have survived.
  • Taking The Flak
    29
    Martin Jarvis, Doon Mackichan, Bruce Mackinnon
    56 votes

    Watch This Show If You Love: NewsRadio, Drop the Dead Donkey, Lateline, Murphy Brown, Frontline
    Why Should I Stream? Blending dark humor with biting satire, Taking The Flak is a critically acclaimed British comedy-drama series set against the backdrop of war journalism – following correspondents from various media outlets as they navigate conflicts abroad while juggling professional rivalries and personal dilemmas back home; its unique approach offers thought-provoking commentary on modern media landscape alongside entertaining tales crafted to keep audiences engaged throughout each episode's running time.

    Taking the Flak is a comedy drama which aired on BBC Two in summer 2009. It is set in a fictional Central African country that is the middle of a civil war. A team of BBC journalists arrive from London, to the annoyance of the local BBC stringer Harry Chambers, and send reports back to BBC News in London. The series has been described as "a bit like Drop the Dead Donkey meets The Constant Gardener". The series is written by Tira Shubart and Jon Rolph. The script consultant is Sandra Jones. It stars Martin Jarvis, Doon Mackichan, Bruce Mackinnon, Kobna Holdbrook-Smith, Damian O'Hare, Joanna Brookes, Lydiah Gitachu, Lucy Chalkley and Harry Lloyd. The theme music is a remix of David Lowe's BBC News Theme. In Australia, this program aired each Thursday at 10pm on ABC2 from 7 January, until 18 February 2010.