Los Angeles 688i
USA1988 - Present
Improved Los Angeles class nuclear attack submarine
Primary Specifications
Displacement
6927 ton
Standard SSN displacement
Length
110 m
Long hull for speed and weapons
Max Depth
290 m
Deep diving capability
Armament (Primary)
12x VLS + 4x 533mm tubes
Tomahawk missiles and torpedoes
Crew
140
Traditional crew complement
Quick Summary
What it is?
The workhorse attack submarine that served throughout Cold War and War on Terror
Who uses it?
US Navy Submarine Force
Role
Attack submarine, Land attack, ASW
What's different?
688i improved models added VLS and Arctic capability
Why it matters?
Most combat-experienced US submarine class
Real-World Impact
1
Desert Storm
First submarine-launched Tomahawk strikes in combat
2
Iraq War
Multiple Tomahawk strikes against Iraqi targets
3
Libyan Strikes
Operation Odyssey Dawn missile strikes
4
Syrian Operations
Continued Tomahawk strikes against Syrian targets
Additional Features
Propulsion Type
Nuclear (S6G reactor)
Stealth Features
Improved quieting over early 688s, anechoic coating
Special Capabilities
Improved (688i) variants have VLS and under-ice capability; proven combat platform
FAQs
1. How many are still in service?
Approximately 28, being replaced by Virginia class2. Why are they being retired?
3. What is the difference from regular 688?
4. Are they quieter than Virginia?
5. Can they operate under ice?
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