United Airlines is fighting back against competition with a stunning new service

United Airlines said on Thursday that it will undergo a major overhaul of its international-business and first-class offerings. At the heart of this undertaking is the airline's new Polaris Business Class. According to the airline, Polaris signals a fundamental shift and rebranding of the airline's international premium-cabin products.

"This completely reconceived experience exemplifies the new spirit of United and the innovation, excitement and operational momentum across our airline," United Airlines' president and CEO, Oscar Munoz, said in a statement.

That experience begins with the airline's new Polaris Lounge at airports around the world and continues with new seats, menus, and amenities on board the flights.

With rivals from the Middle East and the Pacific Rim setting the new benchmark for in-flight service and luxury, US airlines have been forced to step up their game significantly to compete for lucrative business- and first-class passengers. In recent years, Delta and American have implemented significant upgrades to their premium-cabin offerings. Now, United is jumping into the fray.

According to a United Airlines representative, the first Polaris Lounge opens in Chicago on December 1. Flights featuring the Polaris Business Class product will commence in early 2017 on board United's new Boeing 777-300ER jets.

Here's a closer look at United Airlines' new Polaris Business Class, courtesy of the airline:

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