Strange Planes (1/6) : Drones, Midgets, Mutations

For educational purposes

From the German SC-1262 and the 1930s drone controlled by wires connected to a telephone and Hitler's ominous V-1 to ultra-lights and one-man rocket packs.

A tribute to human ingenuity, this episode recounts the astonishing stories behind some of the most outlandish aviation creations. Included are many varieties of drones - unmanned aircraft, mutants - planes adapted to secondary purposes, and midgets.

Drones, Mutants and Midgets can't be judged by appearances alone. Composed of brand-new innovation, these planes represent the best technology has to offer.

Drones refers to unmanned aircraft and encompasses everything from radio-controlled air vehicles to aerial torpedo "bugs."

Mutants are planes that fulfill secondary purposes. Pint-sized experimentals like midgets are also remembered.

Despite their unusual fa?ades, these strange planes have carved out a special place in history.