Lockheed Martin delivers first SPY-7 radar set for Japan's ASEV warship

Lockheed Martin has delivered the first shipset of four AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar antennas to Japan's Ministry of Defence (JMOD) for the country's first new Aegis system equipped vessel (ASEV). The delivery was facilitated through Mitsubishi Corporation under a direct commercial sale agreement.

Japan is acquiring two ASEVs, which are scheduled for commissioning in fiscal years 2027 and 2028.

Lockheed Martin Vice President of Multi-Domain Combat Solutions Chandra Marshall, stated that full system integration and testing with the four newly delivered antennas will take place at the company's production test center (PTC) in Moorestown, New Jersey, this year before the equipment is delivered to Japan. This process is intended to reduce integration risk.

The SPY-7 radar is also being produced for Canada’s new River-class destroyers and Spain’s F-110 frigates. A land-based version of the radar is used by the US for its Guam defense system and successfully intercepted a mid-range ballistic missile during a flight test in December 2024, according to Lockheed Martin.