Lockheed Martin is set to enhance its global defence technology capabilities by integrating Spanish firms into its SPY-7 radar supply chain.
The aerospace and defence player has awarded purchase orders to Indra, Escribano Mechanical and Engineering, and ICM (Integral de Conexión y Montajes, S.L.) for components of the AN/SPY-7(V)2 radar system, which will be used in the F-110 frigate program.
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This move is a step in Lockheed Martin’s broader strategy to bolster its international supply chain. By involving the Spanish industry in the production of radar systems, Lockheed Martin aims to enhance the resiliency of its supply chain and expand its production capacity. The integration of these Spanish partners will strengthen Lockheed Martin’s global defence capabilities.
In previous years, Lockheed Martin has secured a contract with the Japanese Ministry of Defence to produce two AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar sets for Japan’s Aegis Ashore missile defence system. Lockheed Martin’s SPY-7 radar has also successfully completed integration and testing on Japan’s Aegis System Equipped Vessel (ASEV).
According to GlobalData’s intelligence on the global naval radar market, Lockheed Martin is expected to be the largest supplier of naval radars to Japan in terms of market value.
Amr Hussein, Lockheed Martin’s vice president of Multi-Domain Combat Solutions, emphasised the strategic significance of these collaborations: “These strategic collaborations empower local industries, strengthen communities, and drive economic growth, all while providing the most advanced defence capabilities for 21st Century Security. By incorporating Spanish industry into radar production, we are committing to diversify our supply chain and add capacity that enhances our global supply chain.”
Collaboration between Lockheed Martin and Spanish companies has existed for some time. Over the past two decades, Spanish industry has produced components for Lockheed Martin’s radar systems, including watercoolers, auxiliary equipment, and electronic components.
Additionally, Spain has recently signed an agreement to acquire Lockheed Martin’s Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) missiles and join the PAC-3 user community. Both agreements reflect ongoing collaboration and technological advancement between Spain and Lockheed Martin.
