Tokyo (Agencies) July 13, 2025 – Lockheed Martin has successfully delivered the first complete AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar system, comprising four high-performance radar antennas, to the Japan Ministry of Defense (MoD) for integration into the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s (JMSDF) upcoming Aegis System Equipped Vessel (ASEV). The delivery marks a critical milestone in Japan’s naval modernization program, with the first ASEV slated for commissioning in Fiscal Year 2027.
The radar system was transferred under a Direct Commercial Sale arrangement facilitated by Mitsubishi Corporation, following rigorous acceptance testing. Lockheed Martin confirmed that full system integration and testing will continue throughout 2025 at its Production Test Center in Moorestown, New Jersey, to minimize integration risks and ensure timely deployment.
The AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar is derived from Lockheed Martin’s Long Range Discrimination Radar (LRDR) and features 3D S-band gallium nitride (GaN) technology. It boasts an estimated detection range of 4,828 km for terrestrial targets and up to 46,000 km for space-based objects, offering enhanced tracking and engagement capabilities against advanced threats including ballistic missiles and hypersonic weapons.
Japan is acquiring two SPY-7 radar systems for its ASEV fleet. The first vessel is being constructed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), while the second—scheduled for commissioning in FY 2028—is being built by Japan Marine United Corporation, under contracts awarded in September 2024.
The SPY-7 radar has also been selected by other allied nations, including Canada for its River-class destroyers and Spain for its F-110 frigates, underscoring its growing role in global maritime defense networks