Uss Virginia (Cgn-38)
Dragon 7090

USS Virginia (CGN-38) Nuclear-Powered Guided Missile Cruiser is a plastic model kit for self-assembly, depicting the lead ship of the Virginia-class nuclear-powered guided missile cruisers operated by the United States Navy. The kit features detailed representations of the superstructure, missile launchers, masts, radar systems and antennas. Photo-etched parts are included to enhance the finer details of the model.

The model requires assembly and painting. The individual parts must be removed from the sprues, fitted together and joined using model cement. Paints, glue and other materials required to complete and finish the model are not included.

USS Virginia was launched on December 14, 1974, originally designated as a DLGN. In 1975, she was reclassified as a nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser and redesignated CGN-38. She entered service on September 11, 1976, as the lead ship of a new class of four nuclear-powered cruisers.

Virginia was one of the most advanced surface combatants in the U.S. Navy of its era. Her nuclear propulsion provided virtually unlimited endurance at sea, while her extensive missile and gun armament allowed her to perform air-defense, anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare missions. Her original armament included Standard surface-to-air missiles, ASROC anti-submarine rockets and 5-inch guns.

In 1984, Virginia underwent a major modernization that included the installation of the Phalanx Close-In Weapon System and the capability to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles. During the following years, she took part in numerous exercises and deployments with the U.S. Navy, operating in both the Atlantic and Mediterranean regions.

At the end of 1990, Virginia was deployed in support of Operation Desert Shield and subsequently Operation Desert Storm. On January 22, 1991, she launched two Tomahawk cruise missiles from the Mediterranean against targets in Iraq, marking one of the most significant combat actions of her career.

USS Virginia was decommissioned on November 10, 1994. As the first ship of her class, she represented the Cold War-era concept of a large nuclear-powered missile cruiser capable of providing long-range air defense and escorting carrier and surface action groups while maintaining extended operational endurance.