The Japan Ministry of Defense (JMoD) has received the initial shipset of four AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar antennas for the Aegis System Equipped Vessel (ASEV) from Lockheed Martin.
This transaction, conducted as a direct commercial sale, was channelled through Mitsubishi Corporation and followed comprehensive acceptance testing.
Lockheed Martin Multi-Domain Combat Solutions vice president Chandra Marshall said: "The successful on-time delivery of all antennas for the first ASEV showcases the maturity and scalability of the SPY-7 radar as well as production capacity, while also demonstrating Lockheed Martin’s dedication and expertise in system integration.”
The JMoD is in the process of acquiring two ASEVs, with expected commissioning dates in Japan's fiscal year 2027 and 2028.
Marshall added: "We will continue full system integration and testing with all four antennas at the Production Test Center in Moorestown, New Jersey this year, prior to equipment delivery to Japan, which will significantly reduce integration risk and enable commissioning on schedule.”
The SPY-7 radar is equipped with enhanced detection and tracking capabilities to counter complex threats.
It allows for simultaneous engagement with multiple targets, thereby bolstering naval forces' effectiveness amidst evolving security challenges.
According to Lockheed, the SPY-7 radar is also being manufactured for Canada’s River-class destroyers, Spain’s F-110 frigates, and in a land-based format for the Missile Defence Agency's Guam Defence System (TPY-6) and Long-Range Discrimination Radar.
In addition, Lockheed Martin's radar technology has been selected by both US defence initiatives and international allies.
In December 2024, a land-based variant of the SPY-7 radar, designated TPY-6, successfully intercepted a mid-range ballistic missile during a test mission for the Aegis Guam System.
Earlier in 2025, the JMoD received the inaugural AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar antenna from Lockheed Martin to be integrated into their ASEV programme.
Lockheed Martin completed successful tests on the AN/SPY-7(v)1 radar, confirming its readiness for integration onto the ASEV in April last year.
