Lockheed Martin Delivers First AN/SPY-7(V)1 Radar Antenna to Japan

Lockheed Martin has achieved a significant milestone by delivering the first AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar antenna to Japan. This delivery, facilitated by Mitsubishi Corporation under a Direct Commercial Sale (DCS) arrangement, follows rigorous acceptance testing and marks a crucial step in enhancing Japan’s defense capabilities.

The radar antenna will now undergo final integration with the ASEV (Aegis System Equipped Vessel) combat system at the Production Test Center (PTC-2) in Moorestown, New Jersey. This integration phase is critical for minimizing risks during the ship's integration process and ensuring optimal performance before its full deployment to Japan.

Lockheed Martin has expressed its commitment to supporting Japan’s national security objectives, with additional antenna deliveries scheduled for 2025. Chandra Marshall, Vice President of Multi-Domain Combat Solutions at Lockheed Martin, emphasized, “This milestone continues to demonstrate Lockheed Martin’s ability to rapidly scale mature, cutting-edge technology for Japan.”

Specifications of the AN/SPY-7(V)1 Radar

The AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar is a state-of-the-art solid-state radar system designed to address modern naval defense challenges. Its key specifications and capabilities include:

1. Advanced Detection and Tracking:
   The SPY-7 radar can detect and track complex ballistic missiles and advanced aerial threats with remarkable precision. Its solid-state design enables simultaneous engagement of multiple targets using proven interceptors.

2. Versatility:
   The radar technology is adaptable for both naval and land-based applications. It is already planned for deployment on Spain’s F-110 Multi-Mission Frigates, Canada’s River-Class Destroyers, and a transportable version for Guam.

3. Reliability and Scalability:
   Leveraging its proven heritage from the U.S. Missile Defense Agency’s Long-Range Discrimination Radar, the SPY-7 is designed for high reliability, scalability, and adaptability in diverse operational scenarios.

4. Enhanced Combat Capability:
   The SPY-7 system enhances situational awareness, enabling warfighters to make rapid and accurate decisions in high-pressure situations.

ASEV: Japan’s Advanced Defense Platform

The ASEV, which will feature the SPY-7 radar, is a monumental upgrade in Japan’s naval defense. According to the Japanese Ministry of Defense, the ASEV is 190 meters long, 25 meters wide, and has a standard displacement of 12,000 tons. For comparison:

• The Maya-class destroyers of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) are 170 meters long, 21 meters wide, and displace 8,200 tons.
• The ASEV is 1.7 times larger than the U.S. Navy’s Arleigh Burke Flight III destroyer in terms of displacement.

The ASEV also boasts 128 Vertical Launch System (VLS) cells, significantly outpacing the Maya-class destroyer’s 96 cells. This larger VLS capacity allows the ASEV to deploy a broader array of missiles for both offensive and defensive operations, making it a formidable addition to Japan’s naval fleet.

Lockheed Martin’s Global Impact

The delivery of the SPY-7 radar to Japan underscores Lockheed Martin’s position as a global leader in advanced radar technology. Beyond Japan, the system is set to redefine naval defense capabilities worldwide. Its deployment on various platforms demonstrates its versatility and the confidence global allies have in its reliability.

As Japan progresses toward integrating this advanced radar system into its ASEV fleet, the collaboration between Lockheed Martin, Mitsubishi Corporation, and the Japanese government highlights the commitment to strengthening regional security in the Indo-Pacific. With further deliveries planned for 2025, the SPY-7 radar is set to play a pivotal role in ensuring Japan’s 21st-century security objectives.