A $250 million contract between Raytheon and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (MELCO) will allow Japan to produce the ESSM Block 2 missile under a licensed production arrangement. Raytheon is set to deliver the necessary components and provide technical support, with MELCO overseeing local manufacturing.
This deal not only enhances Japan’s naval defense manufacturing but also reinforces long-standing bilateral cooperation. It marks a strategic expansion for Raytheon within the Asia-Pacific market, aligning with growing regional demand for advanced missile systems.
