Next-Gen SPY-7 Radar Proves Ready in Live Target Exercise

Illustration of Japan’s Aegis System Equipped Vessels (ASEVs). Source: Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin, in partnership with US and Japanese defense agencies, successfully completed the first live target tracking test of the SPY-7 radar integrated into Japan’s Aegis System Equipped Vessel (ASEV).

The system demonstrated its ability to detect, track, and discriminate targets, culminating in simulated engagements. The test confirms the system’s readiness, with the SPY-7 radar scheduled for installation on Japan’s ASEV to strengthen its missile defense capabilities. Lockheed Martin writes:

Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), together with the U.S. Department of War (DoW), the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) and Japan’s Ministry of Defense (JMOD), successfully completed the first live target tracking exercise using the SPY-7 radar. Notably, the SPY-7 radar utilized to conduct this testing will be delivered to Japan for installation onto the first Aegis System Equipped Vessel (ASEV).

During this exercise, the ASEV system demonstrated the ability to search, detect, identify, track and discriminate against live targets and concluded with virtual target engagements. This successful exercise highlights ASEV’s maturity of the integrated SPY-7 Aegis System.

SPY-7 Integration

With advanced detection and tracking capabilities, SPY-7 effectively counters complex threats, while enabling engagement of multiple targets and enhancing the effectiveness of naval forces in an ever-changing environment.

Executive Perspective

”Successful completion of the first live target tracking exercise of the ASEV system affirms that our integrated Aegis system is ready to detect, track and engage targets, showcasing Lockheed Martin’s ability to deliver rapid solutions in partnership with the Department of War and Japanese allies,” said Chandra Marshall, vice president of Multi-Domain Combat Solutions at Lockheed Martin.

What’s Next

The complete SPY-7 radar system, including the end-item hardware used in this test, will be installed on Japan’s ASEV and will serve as a critical component of Japan’s homeland defense.

Read more here.