During the 20th century, a technique known as "aerial smokescreen" was employed to safeguard ships during warfare. The video featured here is likely captured during the early 1930s, although this method persisted throughout World War II. It showcases the deployment of a smoke screen by an aircraft to shield ships from potential assaults by enemy ships or coastal artillery. Certain aircraft possessed the capability to create smoke screens spanning up to 5,000 yards. The smoke generated by this method is both colorless and non-flammable. Upon contact with damp air, it crystallizes, resulting in a dense and heavy cloud. This characteristic makes it extremely challenging to locate and aim accurately when the smoke screen is deployed. During World War II, smoke screens proved to be highly effective, especially for the United States, in the South Pacific campaign.