Lockheed Martin has delivered the first set of SPY-7(V)1 radar antennas to Japan’s Ministry of Defense, marking a significant step in equipping Japan’s future Aegis System Equipped Vessel (ASEV) with advanced ballistic missile defense capabilities.
On-Time Delivery Highlights Maturity
Chandra Marshall, vice president at Lockheed Martin, emphasized the on-time delivery as a testament to the SPY-7 radar’s maturity, scalability, and Lockheed Martin’s system integration expertise. Japan plans to commission two ASEVs in fiscal years 2027 and 2028.
International Partnerships
Besides Japan, Lockheed Martin has agreements to equip Canadian River-class destroyers and Spanish F-110-class frigates with the SPY-7 radar, expanding its global presence.
Integration and Testing in the US
Although the radar antennas have been accepted by Japan, they will remain in the United States for full system integration and testing at Lockheed Martin’s Production Test Center in Moorestown, New Jersey, to mitigate integration risks and ensure on-schedule commissioning.
Japan’s Increased Defense Spending
In response to China’s growing assertiveness, Japan has increased its defense spending, approving a record $55.1 billion budget in December.
US Commitment to the Indo-Pacific
During a March trip to the Indo-Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth pledged the Trump administration’s commitment to the region, announcing an „upgrading” of the joint American-Japanese military command.
Economic Tensions with Allies
However, President Trump’s recent announcement of a 25 percent tax on imports from countries including Japan underscores the economic tensions between the US and its military partners in the region.
