The Japan Ministry of Defense (MoD) has received the first AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar antenna from Lockheed Martin for integration with the Aegis System Equipped Vessel (ASEV).
The delivery, facilitated by Mitsubishi through a direct commercial sale agreement, followed acceptance testing.
In April 2024, Lockheed Martin conducted successful tests on the AN/SPY-7(v)1 radar, confirming its readiness for integration onto the ASEV.
The antenna is now set to be integrated with the ASEV combat system at the Production Test Center in Moorestown, a step that will mitigate risks during ship integration and guarantee system performance before its final handover to Japan.
The MoD plans to deploy two ASEVs equipped with the SPY-7 radar system. The ASEV is said to be larger than the JMSDF’s Aegis Maya-class.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) received the contract to construct the first ASEV, while Japan Marine United had reportedly signed a contract for the second ASEV.
The SPY-7 radar technology enhances naval capabilities by allowing warfighters to respond swiftly and accurately in critical situations.
It is capable of simultaneously detecting, tracking, and engaging multiple threats, including ballistic missiles and hypersonic weapons, anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and more.
The company notes that the vessel has been recognised as Technical Readiness Level 7 by the US Government.
It has been at a Lockheed Martin test site since 2018.
Lockheed Martin Multi-Domain Combat Solutions vice-president Chandra Marshall said: “This milestone continues to demonstrate Lockheed Martin’s ability to rapidly scale mature, cutting-edge technology for Japan.
“We plan to keep the momentum going with additional antenna deliveries scheduled for 2025.”
The technology, which builds on the US Missile Defense Agency's Long Range Discrimination Radar, is expected for future deployment on Spain’s F-110 Multi-Mission Frigates and Canada's River-Class Destroyers.
Lockheed Martin has also engaged with companies such as Indra, Escribano Mechanical and Engineering, and ICM for components of the AN/SPY-7(V)2 radar system in July 2024.
