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In a major milestone for Japan’s planned integration of the SPY-7 radar capability into the new Aegis system equipped vessel, Lockheed Martin has successfully demonstrated the first live track of objects in space.
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During the first track event, SPY-7 radar tactical hardware and software tracked objects in space, which verified the maturity of the radar system and marked the beginning of comprehensive performance testing of the next-generation AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar suite.
Amr Hussein, vice-president of multi-domain combat solutions at Lockheed Martin, highlighted the importance of this milestone, saying, “This vigorous testing regimen minimises risk and ensures that Japan will receive a fully integrated and calibrated system as quickly as possible.”
The Japan Ministry of Defense expects to field two Aegis system equipped vessels (ASEV) with the SPY-7 radar system, following a decision in mid-2020 to shift away from the development of two, ground-based Aegis Ashore facilities following a series of provocative missile tests conducted by North Korea and a shift in thinking by the Japanese Self-Defense Forces.
This shift saw a pivot toward a more flexible and survivable “afloat” option through the planned acquisition of two cruiser-sized warships, weighing in at 12,000 tonnes and sporting up to 128 vertical launch cells, making the new class one of the largest and most heavily armed surface combatants in the world.
Chandra Marshall, vice-president of radar and sensor systems at Lockheed Martin, added, “The SPY-7 radar product line uses technology from the Long Range Discrimination Radar (LRDR) program to enhance overall strength against evolving threats. Providing 24/7 coverage, SPY-7 is a superior deterrence asset available for land and maritime applications around the world.”
As part of the next stage in the development cycle, Lockheed Martin will continue to test the SPY-7 radar system technologies prior to shipping the technology to Japan for integration into the future warships.
The SPY-7, a powerful and versatile radar with advanced technology, provides the capability for decisions to be made accurately and quickly. SPY-7 technology is being delivered for the US Missile Defense Agency’s LRDR, the Spanish F-110 Frigate, and Canadian Surface Combatant programs.
Similar technology developed for LRDR and SPY-7 may be utilised for missile defence around US military installations on the Pacific island of Guam in the future.
