Iraq's recent violation of UN sanctions escalated tensions and provoked American-led military strikes. With rare access to American submarines, cruisers, destroyers, helicopters, aircraft carriers and their personnel, NOVA reveals the complex inner workings of American military forces as they prepare for war. You'll get such an unprecedented look at our Navy battle group, you'll need a uniform.

Land a FA-18 "Hornet" on a flight deck in the dark of night. Search a merchant vessel suspected of smuggling illicit cargo. Pinpoint enemy targets with high-tech weaponry. Feel the all-consuming tension experienced by fighter pilots, air traffic controllers and carrier flight deck "yellow shirts." Simulate real battle maneuvers as the USS Tucson prepares a deadly strike. Join the maiden mission of the recently commissioned USS Stennis. Enforce the "no fly" zone over Iraq. And discover why--despite our advanced fighting power--American forces could be vulnerable to future attacks in the Persian Gulf.