USS Los Angeles Class SSN-688/VLS/688I, 1/350 - Hobby Boss 83530

The Hobby Boss 83530 is a plastic model kit to be assembled at 1/350, depicting a U.S. Navy nuclear attack submarine of the Los Angeles class. This “3 in 1” reference lets you build one of the three configurations offered by the kit: SSN-688, the VLS-equipped version, or 688I Improved.

The Los Angeles-class submarine

Los Angeles-class submarines, designated SSN, belong to the category of American nuclear-powered attack submarines. The various evolutions of the class feature distinctive exterior details, including the diving planes and, for some units, the installation of vertical launch tubes (VLS) at the bow.

This model therefore reproduces several stages of this submarine family’s visual development, using a scale well suited for display on a stand and for naval finishing work.

The Hobby Boss 83530 model kit

The model is designed with a full hull in two parts and reproduces the submarine’s surface details. The included specific parts allow you to adapt the assembly to the chosen version, with hull sections, sail structures, and diving planes corresponding to the SSN-688, VLS or 688I configurations.

The box also includes photo-etched parts for certain fine details, as well as a display stand. Once assembled, the model is approximately 31 cm long.

Decorations included

The decal sheet and paint guide provide markings for three Los Angeles-class submarines:

• USS Los Angeles (SSN-688) ;
• USS Chicago (SSN-721), VLS version ;
• USS Miami (SSN-755), 688I version.

Assembly and finishing

Assembling a 1/350 submarine requires careful preparation of the hull seam lines in order to achieve a uniform silhouette. Photo-etched parts are best worked with precision tools and suitable glue. A plastic primer then helps you check the surface before painting.

The finish can highlight the structural lines, the technical areas of the sail, and the propeller. Decals should be applied to a smooth, properly prepared surface; a light weathering can further enhance a realistic display, either moored or at sea on a diorama base.

Technical specifications

• Brand : Hobby Boss
• Reference : 83530
• Type : assembled submarine model kit
• Subject : Los Angeles class SSN-688 / VLS / 688I
• Scale : 1/350
• Material : injected plastic
• Configurations : 3 in 1
• Length (assembled) : approx. 31 cm
• Decals : USS Los Angeles SSN-688, USS Chicago SSN-721 and USS Miami SSN-755
• Included items : plastic parts, photo-etch, decals and display stand

Complementary products

Assembly requires glue for plastic model kits, cutting and sanding tools, as well as suitable paints. A primer, fine brushes or an airbrush, decal-setting products, and a specific glue for photo-etched parts will be helpful additions for any modeler’s toolkit.