As of 2373, this class of Federation starship was the most advanced type of vessel in the fleet. Sovereign-class ships are 24 decks thick and almost 700 meters in length.

Our first glimpse of the Sovereign-class came in 2373, prior to the Borg's invasion of Earth. And that glimpse was of the U.S.S. Enterprise-E, commanded by Captain Picard and launched in 2372.

The Sovereign-class introduced the quantum torpedo as the Federation's latest advancement in tactical weapons.

The class's streamlined design, use of ventral shielding, and overall presence are arguably reasons why this class is that of the Federation's flagship.