First AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar antenna for Japan’s ASEVs delivered by Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin has delivered the first AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar antenna for Japan’s future Aegis System Equipped Vessels (ASEVs) to the Japan Ministry of Defense, the company announced on 15 January 2025.

The ASEVs are two ballistic missile defence (BMD) warships being built for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) as a sea-based replacement for Japan’s cancelled Aegis Ashore BMD programme. The first ASEV is scheduled to be commissioned by the end of March 2028 and the second by the end of March 2029.

The AN/SPY-7(V)1 delivery was made through Mitsubishi Corporation under a Direct Commercial Sale (DCS) arrangement after rigorous acceptance testing. The AN/SPY-7 (V)1 antenna will now proceed to final integration with the ASEV combat system at the Production Test Center (PTC-2) in Moorestown, New Jersey, in support of full system delivery to Japan.

“This comprehensive integration phase significantly minimises risk during ship integration and ensures optimal system performance prior to delivery,” Lockheed Martin stated.

Speaking of the first AN/SPY-7(V)1 delivery, Chandra Marshall, vice president of Multi-Domain Combat Solutions at Lockheed Martin, was quoted by the company as stating, “This milestone continues to demonstrate Lockheed Martin’s ability to rapidly scale mature, cutting-edge technology for Japan.

“We plan to keep the momentum going with additional antenna deliveries scheduled for 2025,” Marshall added.

The software-defined, digital solid-state SPY-7 radar has advanced capabilities to detect, track and engage complex ballistic missiles and advanced air threats, simultaneously engaging multiple targets with proven interceptors.

SPY-7 technology is also planned for future naval applications, including on Spain’s F-110 multi-mission frigates and Canada’s River-class destroyers.