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Lockheed Martin's Delivery of the ASEV Flagship System

Lockheed Martin has reached a crucial milestone by completing the verification testing for the integrated Aegis system designed for Japan’s first ASEV (Aegis System Enhanced Vessel) flagship. This comprehensive system consists of multiple key components, including the SPY 7 radar antenna with its four surfaces, onboard radar processing units, power and cooling systems, and the Aegis combat system’s processing and display units. As preparations are underway for packaging and shipping to Japan, these essential systems are expected to be delivered within this year. Upon successful integration and installation aboard the ASEV, final acceptance testing will be conducted, ultimately establishing a robust foundation for Japan's next-generation Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) capabilities that can detect, track, and intercept increasingly sophisticated threats.

Chandra Marshall, Lockheed Martin’s Vice President of Multi-Domain Combat Solutions, stated, "Delivering the complete system for ASEV is a reaffirmation of our commitment to enhancing security across the Indo-Pacific region in the 21st century. This milestone not only reinforces the maturity and reliability of the SPY 7 program but also demonstrates our technology’s rapid transition from concept to operational capability."

Strategic Importance of the ASEV Program

The ASEV program transcends mere technological advancement; it is part of a strategic initiative to elevate Japan's defense capabilities to the next level. A total of two ASEVs will be manufactured, each equipped with the AN/SPY 7(V)1 radar with four antennas. This configuration will enable broad-area detection and provide 360-degree IAMD capabilities, allowing for simultaneous tracking of numerous ballistic missiles and aerial threats, achieving world-class IMAD capabilities.

By integrating the Aegis combat system, the ASEV will act as a moving shield, protecting vital maritime routes, airspace, and national territory. Once operational, each ASEV will share complete interoperability with Japan's existing Kongo, Atago, and Maya class Aegis destroyers, as well as with U.S. Navy Aegis fleets and allied navies—further enhancing regional security cohesion.

Lockheed Martin engineers are committed to delivering the highest standards of quality, unwavering reliability, and cutting-edge capabilities. The ASEV program has opened up new opportunities for defense cooperation between Japan and the U.S. We will continue to work closely with both nations to provide innovative technologies that respond to the evolving security landscape in Japan. Additionally, by producing key SPY-7 radar components domestically, we aim to create a robust maintenance and future production network within Japan that ensures long-term, stable operational capabilities with high reliability and performance for decades to come.

Lockheed Martin collaborates closely with the Japanese Ministry of Defense, the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, and industry partners to ensure the highest levels of quality, reliability, and capability are maintained throughout the program. During the recent Plug Pull Ceremony, participants from the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, Japan’s Ministry of Defense, Lockheed Martin, and Mitsubishi International Corporation celebrated the successful completion of the ASEV flagship equipment testing.

Looking Ahead

The configurations for the first ASEV are currently being prepared for shipment to Japan. As integrating and testing on the flagship is scheduled, operational trials for components of the second ASEV will be conducted this fall at the production test center in Moorestown, New Jersey, indicating smooth progress toward their planned commissioning in 2027 and 2028.

The ASEV initiative not only delivers high-quality system hardware but also establishes collaborative frameworks. Engineers from both Japan and the U.S. work jointly to develop maintenance procedures, training curriculum, and supply chain strategies. Such initiatives ensure that the SPY-7 radar sustains its high-performance levels and reliability for the coming decades.

About Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology leader dedicated to fostering innovation and scientific discovery. Driven by a vision of comprehensive mission solutions and 21st-century security, the company accelerates the delivery of transformative technologies, promising clients a state of readiness at all times. For the latest corporate updates, visit lockheedmartin.com and follow @LMNewsJapan on X.