The Winds of War is set against the backdrop of world events that led to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour in 1941.

The Winds of War stars Robert Mitchum as Victor "Pug" Henry, a career naval officer who, along with his family, learns to navigate the waters of his dangerous times in the late 1930s. While Germany expands and proceeds to seize several border countries, Italy attempts to establish a Fascist Colonial Empire under Mussolini and Japan prepares for a major battle with China. Meanwhile, the Henry clan finds itself drawn into the centre of the conflict as they deal with the drama, romance, tragedy and heroism that lead to America's involvement in World War II.