The 360-foot, 6,900-ton submarines of the Los Angeles class are among the most advanced undersea vessels in the world. Faster than her predecessors and equipped with highly accurate sensors, weapons control systems and central computer complexes, the Los Angeles class is armed with sophisticated MK-48 Advanced Capability anti-submarine/ship torpedoes, Tomahawk land attack cruise missiles, and mines.

Designed as a follow-on to the Sturgeon class submarines built during the 1960s, the Los Angeles class incorporated improved sound quieting and a larger propulsion plant than previous classes. Her many capabilities include wartime functions of undersea warfare, strike warfare, surface warfare, mining operations, reconnaissance, special forces delivery, carrier battle group support and escort, and intelligence collection.

The Los Angeles class specifically included anti-submarine warfare (ASW) against Soviet submarines trying to sink the US carrier and anti-surface warfare against capital ships in the Soviet surface action group (SAG). Los Angeles class submarines were designed almost exclusively for Carrier Battlegroup (CVBG) escort; they were fast and quiet. Escort duties included conducting ASW sweeps hundreds of miles ahead of the CVBG and conducting attacks against the SAG.

Dominance over the Soviet Navy was vital in preserving maritime superiority during the Cold War. US attack submarines monitored Soviet naval development and open ocean naval operations in the Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Pacific oceans. The Los Angeles class obtained vital information on Soviet naval capabilities and weaknesses while underscoring American determination to defend the nation and allies from attack.

Though almost all Cold War operations remain classified, two declassified missions showcase Submarine Force capabilities. In the 1970s, USS Guardfish (SSN-612) silently tracked a Soviet cruise missile (SSGN) submarine which was following US aircraft carriers off Vietnam, ready to protect American ships should the SSGN launch her missiles. In 1978, USS Batfish (SSN-681) tracked a Soviet ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) sailing off the East Coast of the US, learning Soviet SSBN patrol areas and operating patterns and providing early indications of any potential surprise attack on the US.

With the wooden Los Angeles class submarine model, one can almost hear the roar of the ocean waves. It is an exact replica of the original, handmade with vigilance, from the very first to the last step. Master craftsmen diligently carve high quality mahogany to create the sub's form. After it is sanded and puttied, skilled artists paint on the intricate details. Hand-casted resin and handmade metal parts also constitute the model. Clear lacquer provides the finishing touch and long-lasting protection. Each ship comes on a a display base with brass pedestals and a brass name plate. All items then undergo quality control and are delivered to eagerly waiting customers in protective double-lined boxes with high density foam. More than just a display piece, the Los Angeles class submarine model is a work of art.