Naval Technology

Lockheed Martin SEWIP Block 2 contract for US Navy, Japan

The contract marks the first international sale of SEWIP Block 2 AN/SLQ-32(V)6 and AN/SLQ-32C(V)6 systems to Japan.

Lockheed Martin has been awarded a $113m contract by Naval Sea Systems Command for full rate production (FRP) of the Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Programme (SEWIP) Block 2 AN/SLQ-32(V)6 and AN/SLQ-32C(V)6 systems.

This contract, which integrates purchases for the US Navy and the Government of Japan under the Foreign Military Sales programme, marks the first international sale of this system to Japan.

It represents a modification to a previously awarded SEWIP full rate production contract, accommodating additional production based on demand.

SEWIP Block 2 enhances situational awareness by offering early detection, analysis, and threat warnings against anti-ship missiles for Navy surface fleet.

This capability enables sailors to safeguard their ships from missiles identified by their invisible radio frequency signatures.

Lockheed Martin's SEWIP Block 2 transitioned from development to full-rate production in September 2016.

The system is currently deployed on numerous Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers and is set to be installed on nearly all US Navy surface combatants, including both classes of Littoral Combat Ships (LCS).

It also boasts lower life cycle costs and a scalable open architecture, further solidifying its position as a premier shipboard electronic warfare system.

The US Coast Guard is also set to benefit from the SEWIP Block 2 capability, with plans to incorporate the system into their fleet of Offshore Patrol Cutters.

SEWIP provides ships with the same threat detection systems as the US Navy, boosting onboard capabilities and enhancing interoperability.

Lockheed Martin Rotary & Mission Systems Spectrum Convergence vice-president Deon Viergutz said: “The SEWIP program has proven critical for the US Navy in the early detection of threats.

“With this first purchase in Japan, we are setting the stage to continue to expand this key technology around the globe for an improved network of electronic surveillance, enabling US, allied and partner forces to continue to evolve and outpace modern threats.”