What You Need to Know: The 688i Improved Los Angeles-class submarines, introduced in the late Cold War, remain essential to the U.S. Navy. Building on the original Los Angeles-class, these submarines incorporate quieter operation, improved sensors, and electronic upgrades.

-Featuring 12 vertical launch systems for Tomahawk missiles and advanced sonar capabilities, they support a range of missions, from reconnaissance and intelligence gathering to special operations, such as SEAL delivery.

-Known for their low acoustic signature, the 688i submarines can closely approach enemy targets, maintaining strategic advantages in intelligence, stealth, and firepower. Despite newer submarine classes, these vessels continue to be vital Navy assets.

The Los Angeles-class submarines remain the backbone of the U.S. Navy’s submarine force despite newer Seawolf-class and Virginia-Class vessels joining the fleet over the last several decades.

Initially designed during the Cold War to counter the Soviet Union’s advances in submarine technology, the Los Angeles ships were equipped with improved sound quieting and a larger propulsion plant than its predecessors.

These advanced submarines could operate in various missions, including undersea warfare, surface warfare, mining operations, special forces delivery, reconnaissance, and carrier battle group support and escort.

Following the original Los Angeles-class’ introduction to service, a succeeding........

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